Xi calls for urgent ceasefire in Middle East

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in the Middle East, warning that the escalating conflict poses a serious threat to regional and global stability.

Xi made the remarks during a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, in which the two leaders discussed the rapidly deteriorating situation in the region.

Calling the current Middle East crisis “highly perilous,” Xi said it reflects a broader global shift toward instability and transformation. He warned that continued escalation would cause greater suffering for those directly involved and could severely impact neighboring countries.

Xi stressed that the use of force is not a legitimate method for resolving international disputes, as it only fuels hatred and confrontation. He urged all parties, especially 'Israel', to halt military operations immediately to prevent further escalation and regional spillover.

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Ensuring the safety of civilians must be the top priority, Xi said, adding that the red line of civilian protection must never be crossed, and the indiscriminate use of force is unacceptable. He called on all parties to adhere to international law, avoid harming civilians, and facilitate the safe evacuation of foreign nationals.

Reaffirming China's commitment to peaceful resolution, Xi said dialogue and negotiation are the only viable paths toward long-term peace. He also underscored the need to return to a political solution regarding Iran’s nuclear issue.

Xi called on the international community, particularly influential powers, to take responsible steps to ease tensions, and urged the UN Security Council to play a more active role in promoting peace.

China, he added, is ready to work with all parties to promote dialogue, uphold justice, and contribute constructively to restoring peace in the Middle East.

Russian President Vladimir Putin echoed Xi's concerns, stating that 'Israel’s' strike on Iranian nuclear facilities was "extremely dangerous." He emphasized that no one stands to gain from continued escalation and called for a diplomatic resolution to the Iranian nuclear issue.

Putin also stressed the importance of protecting foreign nationals caught in the conflict and expressed Russia’s readiness to coordinate closely with China to help reduce tensions and maintain regional stability.

Both leaders reaffirmed their countries’ strong strategic partnership and agreed to continue high-level exchanges and deepen cooperation across various fields.