Tracking Chinese and Russian Statements on the Iran War

Since the start of U.S.-Israel military operations against Iran in February 2026, Russia and China have released a litany of statements in defense of Tehran, ranging from specific criticisms of allied tactics to well-trod critiques of America and its approach to international affairs. Beyond these shared platitudes, however, is a slight deviation in how each government has approached public messaging during the conflict. 

Moscow’s messaging has been incandescent since the start. On the day the fighting began, Russia’s Foreign Ministry decried the “propaganda preparations that preceded this reckless step” and warned of the potential for a humanitarian, economic, and even “radiological” disaster. Foreign Minister Lavrov called his counterparts in Iran and Qatar that same day and pledged to convene a UN Security Council meeting. At the UN, Russia further criticized the “actions taken by Washington and West Jerusalem.” And when Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed early in the war, the Kremlin mourned his loss and condemned “the practice of political assassination and manhunt for leaders of sovereign states”—only to then blandly note that “retaliation strikes” at U.S. military bases in the region and “the activation of anti-aircraft defense systems” had caused damage to airports, high-rise buildings, and hotels in the Gulf states. 

Beijing’s public approach has been a bit more measured. Its initial Foreign Ministry statement noted that China was “highly concerned” about the operation and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. Unlike Moscow, Beijing did not publicly mention any calls with regional officials until three days into the war, when Foreign MinisterWang Yi spoke with his counterparts in Iran and Oman. Although China condemned Khamenei’s killing as a violation of international law and warned of a return to “the law of the jungle,” the government’s statements have generally attempted to strike a balance between criticizing the United States and focusing on Middle East stability—particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for Chinese energy and commerce. Beijing has also put out several messages regarding lessons learned from the conflict, including a March 2 army statement that warned against a “blind faith in peace” and “the enemy within.” 

Russia and China’s public messaging on the war reflects the disparity in their respective stakes in the Middle East. Moscow’s current foreign policy focus is overwhelmingly on Ukraine, where it is still bogged down in its war against a Western-backed military. Russia has historical ties to Iran and stands to gain considerably after the war if the regime survives, so it has little to lose by publicly slamming U.S. actions. Yet China has deep economic and investment ties in the Gulf states, while the Strait of Hormuz is crucial to its energy and trade flows. As such, it has attempted to find a middle ground between supporting Iran and not alienating its Gulf partners. 

Beyond these tactical differences, however, Russia and China share a similar strategic aspiration: to use the Iran crisis as another avenue for criticizing and undermining the United States and, by extension, the U.S.-led international order. The following is a chronological tracker of their notable public remarks, statements, social media posts, and readouts (the text of these entries is unedited; any errors are from the original sources). This tracker will be updated throughout the war.

Feb. 28: Chinese Foreign Ministry remarks

China is highly concerned over the military strikes against Iran launched by the U.S. and Israel. Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity should be respected. China calls for an immediate stop to the military actions, no further escalation of the tense situation, resumption of dialogue and negotiation, and efforts to uphold peace and stability in the Middle East.

Feb. 28: Russian Foreign Ministry statement

On the morning of February 28, US and Israeli armed forces carried out airstrikes on the territory of Iran. The scope and character of the military, political, and propaganda preparations that preceded this reckless step, including the deployment of substantial US military forces to the region, leave no doubt that this is a deliberate, premeditated, and unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign and independent UN member state, in direct violation of the fundamental principles and norms of international law.

It is particularly reprehensible that these strikes are once again being conducted under the cover of the renewed negotiation process, ostensibly intended to secure long-term normalisation of the situation around the Islamic Republic of Iran. This comes despite assurances conveyed to the Russian side indicating that Israel had no interest in entering into military confrontation with Iran. The international community, including the leadership of the UN and the IAEA, must urgently deliver an objective and unbiased assessment of these irresponsible actions, which are aimed at undermining peace, stability, and security in the Middle East.

Washington and Tel Aviv have once again embarked on a perilous course that is swiftly pushing the region toward a humanitarian, economic, and potentially even radiological disaster. The aggressors’ intentions are evident and have been stated openly: to dismantle the constitutional order and remove the leadership of a state they deem undesirable because it has refused to yield to the dictates of force and hegemonic pressure. Responsibility for the impact of this man-made crisis, including the unpredictable chain reaction and the spiral of escalating violence, rests entirely with them.

The grave repercussions of these ill-conceived actions for the global non-proliferation regime, whose cornerstone is the NPT, are being openly disregarded. Meanwhile, the US-Israeli tandem seeks to cover its actions with a purported concern over preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. The bombing of nuclear facilities operating under IAEA safeguards is unacceptable. Essentially, the motives of Washington and Tel Aviv bear no relation to the objectives of the non-proliferation regime. They cannot but recognise that, by plunging the Middle East into the abyss of uncontrolled escalation, they are effectively prompting countries across the globe—and the Middle East in particular—to pursue ever more grave means of countering emerging threats.

The sustained and systematic nature of the destabilising attacks, carried out by the US administration against the fundamental principles of the international legal order in recent months, raises particular concern. Among the violated principles are non-interference in internal affairs, the renunciation of the use or threat of use of force, and the peaceful settlement of international disputes.

We call for an immediate return to a political and diplomatic track. Russia, as always, stands ready to assist in advancing peaceful solutions grounded in international law, mutual respect, and a balanced consideration of interests.

Feb. 28: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On February 28, the US & Israel have embarked on a perilous course, carried out airstrikes on the territory of Iran

It’s a deliberate, premeditated, & unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign & independent UN member state

Regarding US & Israel aggression vs Iran:

Aggressors’ intentions have been stated openly: to remove the leadership of a state they deem undesirable.

We call for immediate return to a political & diplomatic track.

Russia stands ready to assist in advancing peaceful solutions

Feb. 28: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

The Iranian minister briefed Sergey Lavrov on IRI leadership’s steps to repel the aggression by the United States and Israel, which had once again derailed talks on peaceful settlement of the issues concerning Iran’s nuclear programme. He informed Sergey Lavrov about the plans to convene an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council.

Sergey Lavrov condemned the absolutely unprovoked armed attack by the United States and Israel on Iran in violation of principles and standards of international law while totally ignoring hard repercussions for the regional and global stability and security. He pointed out the need to promptly stop the attacks against the Islamic Republic and to bring back the developments toward political and diplomatic settlement. Sergey Lavrov stressed Russia’s readiness to assist in seeking peaceful solution based in international law, mutual respect and balance of interests.

The Iranian side expressed sincere gratitude to the Russian Federation for invariable and solid support.

Feb. 28: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On February 28, Foreign Ministers Sergey #Lavrov & @Araghchi held a telephone conversation.

Sergey Lavrov pointed out the need to promptly stop the attacks against Iran and to bring back the developments toward political and diplomatic settlement.

Feb. 28: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Qatari Foreign Minister Muhammad al-Thani

On February 28, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a telephone conversation with the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar...The parties discussed the situation around Iran. The ministers unanimously called for ceasing any hostilities that involved the risk of destabilising the entire region. They expressed their common shared opinion on the need for an urgent return to the political and diplomatic process intended to settle all the problems between the United States, Israel and the Islamic Republic of Iran on the basis of the UN Charter and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. At the same time, it is necessary that all the sides fully take into account the legitimate interests of the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf. Sergey Lavrov has reaffirmed the well-known Russian initiative on building a collective security architecture of in the Gulf area.

Feb. 28: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Emirati Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed al-Nahyan

The Russian Foreign Minister stressed that the actions of the United States and Israel in launching an unprovoked aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran were unacceptable.

The foreign ministers of Russia and the UAE stressed the destabilising nature of the military escalation in the region, which creates security threats to the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf.

[They] expressed a unanimous opinion that all hostilities must cease and the situation must return to the political and diplomatic track, with due consideration for the legitimate interests of all the countries in the region.

Mar. 1: Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson post

The attack and killing of Iran’s supreme leader is a grave violation of Iran’s sovereignty and security. It tramples on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and basic norms in international relations. China firmly opposes and strongly condemns it. 

We urge for an immediate stop to the military operations, no further escalation of the tense situation and joint effort to maintain peace and stability in the Middle East and the world at large.

Mar. 1: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Launching large-scale military operations against a sovereign state without authorization from the UN Security Council undermines the very foundations of peace established after World War II. The international community must speak with one clear and unequivocal voice to oppose any return of the world to law the jungle.

Mar. 1: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi stated during a phone conversation with Russian FM Sergei Lavrov:

China’s position on the situation in #Iran:

1. Immediate cessation of military operations
2. Prompt return to dialogue and negotiations
3. Joint opposition to unilateral actions

Mar. 1: Russian Mission to the UN repost

#Nebenzia: The actions taken by Washington and West Jerusalem are nothing but yet another unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign and independent @UN Member State, in violation of the #UNCharter and of the fundamental principles of international law.

Mar. 1: Russian Mission to the UN repost

#Nebenzia: We demand that the United States and Israel immediately cease their aggressive actions.

There are no and will never be any alternatives to a peaceful and diplomatic resolution of the Iranian issue, including its nuclear component.

Mar. 1: Chinese Foreign Ministry remarks

Q: It’s reported that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the air strikes launched by the U.S. and Israel. What is China’s comment?

A: The attack and killing of Iran’s supreme leader is a grave violation of Iran’s sovereignty and security. It tramples on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and basic norms in international relations. China firmly opposes and strongly condemns it. We urge for an immediate stop to the military operations, no further escalation of the tense situation and joint effort to maintain peace and stability in the Middle East and the world at large.

Mar. 1: Statement by Russian President Vladimir Putin

“Please, accept my deepest condolences on the assassination of Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran Seyyed Ali Khamenei and members of his family, committed in cynical violation of all norms of human morality and international law.

In our country, Grand Ayatollah Khamenei will be remembered as an outstanding statesman who made an enormous personal contribution to the development of friendly ties between Russia and Iran and to raising them to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership

Please, convey my most sincere sympathy and support to the family and friends of the Supreme Leader, as well as to the leadership and to the entire people of Iran.”

Mar. 1: Russian Foreign Ministry post

President Vladimir #Putin expressed deepest condolences to President of Iran @drpezeshkian over the assassination of Supreme Leader of Iran Ali Khamenei

Please, convey my most sincere sympathy & support to the family & friends of the Supreme Leader

Mar. 1: Russian Foreign Ministry statement

Moscow has received the news of the killing of the Supreme and Spiritual Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, members of his family, and senior Iranian officials in US and Israeli missile strikes with outrage and deep sorrow. The Russian Federation strongly and consistently condemns the practice of political assassination and manhunt for leaders of sovereign states that goes against the fundamental principles of civilised interstate relations and constitutes a grave violation of international law.

In the course of continuing military operations, the number of casualties among civilians is constantly rising, with serious damage being inflicted on civilian infrastructure as well. Retaliation strikes at the US military bases in the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf, along with the activation of anti-aircraft defence systems, have caused damage to the international airports in Dubai, Kuwait City, sea ports, high-rises and hotels in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. It has been reported that navigation has been stopped in the Strait of Hormuz. This can lead to the blocking of hydrocarbon exports to the region and create a significant imbalance in the global oil and gas markets.

We call for immediate de-escalation, cessation of hostilities, resumption of political and diplomatic processes, to settle any existing problems on the basis of the UN Charter and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. The legitimate interests of all the states in the Persian Gulf must be taken into account.

Mar. 1: Russian Foreign Ministry post

We call for immediate de-escalation, cessation of hostilities, resumption of political and diplomatic processes, to settle any existing problems on the basis of the UN Charter and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

Mar. 1: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On February 28, FMs Sergey #Lavrov & @ABZayed had a telephone conversation.

The Russian Foreign Minister stressed that the actions of the US & Israel in launching an unprovoked aggression against the Iran were unacceptable.

Mar. 1: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov

On March 1, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov upon request.

Wang Yi noted that at the request of China and Russia, the U.N. Security Council met in emergency session yesterday on the current situation in Iran. China always upholds the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter, and opposes the use of force in international relations. It is unacceptable for the U.S. and Israel to launch attacks against Iran in the midst of their ongoing negotiations, still less to blatantly assassinate a leader of a sovereign country and instigate regime change. These actions have violated international law and fundamental norms of international relations. China is highly concerned that the conflict has now spilled over to the entire Persian Gulf region, and that the situation in the Middle East is being pushed to the brink of a dangerous abyss.

Wang Yi stated that China’s position is as follows: First, military actions should be immediately ceased. The conflict should be prevented from spreading and spilling over to avoid a situation that is beyond control. China takes seriously the security of Gulf states and supports their efforts to exercise restraint. Second, there should be an earliest possible return to dialogue and negotiation. All sides should spare no efforts to promote peace, discourage war, and urge the parties concerned to return to the track of dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible. Third, we should jointly oppose unilateral acts. Launching military strikes against a sovereign state without authorization of the U.N. Security Council undermines the peace foundation established after World War II. The international community should make clear and unequivocal voice in opposing the regression of the world to the law of the jungle.

Lavrov said that the military strikes launched by the U.S. and Israel against Iran severely undermine the stability in the Middle East region. Russia shares China’s position, and stands ready to step up coordination and communication with China to send out clear-cut messages through such platforms as the U.N. and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and call for immediate ceasefire and return to the process of diplomatic negotiations.

Mar. 1: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi

The ministers condemned the large-scale military strikes launched by the United States and Israel against Iranian territory, an operation carried out despite Tehran’s stated openness to dialogue. They stressed that such acts of aggression represent a grave violation of international law and the fundamental principles of the UN Charter, destabilising the situation across the entire region. Particular emphasis was placed on the fact that it is unacceptable to pursue policies aimed at overthrowing the legitimately elected authorities of sovereign states.

Sergey Lavrov and Wang Yi called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and underscored the urgent need for a political and diplomatic resolution to all issues related to the Iranian case, including ensuring the legitimate security interests of all the Gulf states.

The ministers highlighted the unity of Moscow’s and Beijing’s positions during the emergency UN Security Council meeting convened the previous day at the initiative of Russia and China. They expressed their readiness to continue working together to help stabilise the situation, by coordinating their efforts within the UN Security Council, the IAEA, the SCO, and the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations.

The parties agreed to maintain close contact on all pressing international issues.

Mar. 1: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 1, FMs Sergey Lavrov & Wang Yi held a telephone conversation.

The Ministers condemned the large-scale military strikes launched by the US & Israel against Iran, carried out despite Tehran’s stated openness to dialogue

Mar. 2: Post by China Military Bugle (official military press account)

Five Lessons from U.S.-Israel Strikes on Iran

1. Deadliest Threat: The Enemy Within
2. Costliest Miscalculation: Blind Faith in Peace
3. Coldest Reality: The Logic of Superior Firepower
4. Cruelest Paradox: The Illusion of Victory
5. Ultimate Reliance: Self-Reliance

Mar. 2:Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning press conference

Q: Since U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran began on February 28, U.S. military targets in Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Jordan have been under attack, which is condemned by relevant countries. What is China’s comment?

A:The U.S.-Israeli strikes have no UN Security Council authorization and violate international law. China is deeply concerned over the regional spillover. China believes that the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the Gulf states should likewise be fully respected. We urge parties to stop the military operations and prevent further spread of the conflict. China commends the statement by the 50th Extraordinary Meeting of the GCC Ministerial Council that reaffirmed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy as the sole path to overcome the current crisis and preserve regional security. In light of the complex and delicate situation, China supports regional countries in valuing good-neighborliness, enhancing communication and coordination and jointly working for peace and stability in the region.

Q: On the strikes against Iran by the U.S. and Israel, China has taken a very strong position. I wanna ask China as a major global power with a veto power in the UN Security Council and a strategic partner of Iran, how can China play a role in preventing the U.S. from carrying out unilateral actions, such as assassinating leaders of sovereign countries?

A: China is deeply concerned over the current situation. China firmly opposes the use of force in international relations or infringement on other countries’ sovereignty and security. The priority now is to immediately stop military operations and prevent the spread and spillover of the conflict. China stands ready to work with the international community to call for peace and stop the conflict, resolve issues through dialogue and negotiations, and maintain peace and stability in the Middle East and the world at large.

Q: It’s been reported that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard is blocking the transit of commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf because of the conflict. One-fifth of the world’s oil and LNG supplies as well as a large amount of China’s oil imports go across this Strait before reaching destinations. How do you think this de facto blockade of the Strait might affect China’s imports and energy security in general?

A: The Strait of Hormuz and its adjacent waters are an important international trade route for goods and energy. To keep the region secure and stable serves the common interests of the international community. China urges relevant parties to immediately stop military operations, avoid further escalation of the tense situation and prevent regional turmoil from causing greater damage to global economic growth.

Q: Amid the severe security situation in Iran, Chinese embassies and consulates in relevant countries have issued security alerts and evacuation advisories. What other measures will China take to further protect Chinese citizens in Iran?

A: Since the security situation in Iran turned tense, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chinese diplomatic missions in Iran have issued alerts more than once. They have worked in various ways to call on Chinese citizens to evacuate as soon as possible and offer them assistance. As of March 2, Beijing time, over 3,000 Chinese citizens have been evacuated from Iran. Chinese diplomatic missions in Iran’s neighboring countries have sent working groups to receive and assist the evacuated Chinese citizens at border ports.

Given the severe security situation in Iran, we once again advise the Chinese citizens in Iran to take extra safety precautions and leave Iran as soon as possible. If any help is needed, please contact the Chinese embassy and consulate in Iran or dial consular protection hotline 12308.

Q: The Foreign Ministry of China confirmed yesterday that a Chinese national was injured in the attacks. Could you give us more details about this person, including where it happened? 

A: China mourns for our fellow citizen who lost his life when caught in the military conflict in Tehran. We extend sympathies to the family of the victim. The Foreign Ministry has directed the Chinese embassy in Iran to provide assistance to those affected and their families.

Mar. 2: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning post

The U.S.-Israeli strikes have no UN Security Council authorization and violate international law. 

China is deeply concerned over the regional spillover. The sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the Gulf states should likewise be fully respected.

Mar. 2: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

On March 2, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi upon request.

Seyed Abbas Araghchi briefed Wang Yi on the latest developments of the situation of Iran, noting that the U.S. has launched war against Iran for the second time during their ongoing negotiations. Though the two sides have made positive progress in the latest round of negotiations, the U.S. action violates all international laws and treads and even crosses the red line of Iran. The Iranian side has no choice but to defend itself at all costs. China has made public its voice for fairness and justice, and Iran hopes that China will continue playing an proactive role in preventing the escalation of tensions in the region.

Wang Yi reiterated China’s principled position on the current situation in Iran. He noted that China values the traditional friendship between China and Iran and supports Iran in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, territorial integrity and national dignity and in upholding its legitimate and lawful rights and interests.

Wang Yi said that China has urged the U.S. and Israel to immediately cease military actions to avoid further escalation of tensions and prevent the conflict from expanding and spreading to the entire Middle East region. China believes that under the current grave and complex situation, Iran will maintain its national and social stability, take seriously the legitimate concerns of neighboring countries, and ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in Iran. Seyed Abbas Araghchi noted that the Iranian side will do its utmost to guarantee the safety and security of Chinese personnel and institutions.

Mar. 2: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Iranian FM Seyed Abbas Araghchi.

#China supports #Iran in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, territorial integrity, and national dignity, and supports Iran in upholding its legitimate and lawful rights and interests.

China has urged the U.S. and Israel to immediately cease military operations, prevent further escalation of tensions, and stop the conflict from spreading and engulfing the entire #MiddleEast.

Mar. 2: Russian Foreign Ministry statement 

We are deeply concerned about the escalating armed confrontation across the Middle East, resulting from US and Israeli aggression against Iran.

It is evident that, beyond pursuing regime change in Iran through the most unscrupulous methods, including the murder of a sovereign state’s leadership, Washington and Tel Aviv are also seeking to undermine efforts aimed at normalising relations between Iran and its Arab neighbours.

For our part, we call for the immediate cessation of hostilities by all sides and, as an unconditional priority, the adoption of comprehensive measures to ensure the safety of civilians and civilian infrastructure in all countries of the region. The strike on a girls’ school in the Iranian city of Minab, which claimed the lives of dozens of innocent children, warrants the strongest condemnation.

Attacks on civilian targets, whether in Iran or in Arab states, are unacceptable and must be completely ruled out.

We once again strongly urge all parties to renounce the use of force in resolving existing differences and to move towards political and diplomatic settlement of all issues, while respecting the legitimate security interests of all countries in the region.

Mar. 2: Russian Foreign Ministry post

Russia expresses concern over the expansion of the armed confrontation across the entire Middle East as a result of the aggression by the US & Israel against Iran.

Any attacks on civilian facilities are unacceptable & must cease immediately.

Mar. 2: Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova press conference

Q: How many Russian citizens have sought assistance from the Russian Foreign Ministry and consulates for returning home? How many have been supported?

A: As you are aware, the data regarding Russians who have reached out to our foreign missions is in a state of constant flux. The following numbers reflect the scale and intricacy of the situation confronting our citizens. As of the end of the day on March 1, approximately 1,400 Russian nationals had contacted the Russian Embassy in the UAE. The Russian Consulate General in Dubai has received over 6,000 requests from Russian citizens. Comprehensive consular support has been extended to all, within the remit of our foreign missions. The number of new inquiries continues to rise, prompting the introduction of three additional telephone lines for citizen enquiries. Furthermore, Consulate General staff have been arranged on a continuous duty roster.

The Russian Embassy in Iran has received over 50 requests from compatriots. All have been provided with necessary instructions and assistance regarding evacuation to Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Turkmenistan.

The Russian Embassies in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait continue to receive a steady stream of calls and written requests.

Since February 28, the Russian Embassy in Tel Aviv has received more than 300 hotline calls and emails from Russian citizens currently in Israel, seeking consular assistance and general information.

The Russian Embassy in Doha has received around 250 requests. The total number of compatriots awaiting evacuation, including 364 Qatar Airways transit passengers and 150 members of a children’s football school, is estimated to be at least 800. Given the circumstances, all those who have approached the Embassy have been provided with detailed instructions and recommendations.

Q: Does the Foreign Ministry advise Russians to refrain from travelling to the Persian Gulf countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE)? Does the Ministry recommend that compatriots leave these countries?

A: Detailed updates regarding the current situation have been published on the official social media accounts of our foreign missions. While specific recommendations may vary by country, the overarching advice for all remains the same: maintain calm and vigilance, strictly adhere to the host country’s security directives, stay close to safe locations, and, if necessary, remain there until notified otherwise by local authorities.

We would also like to draw your attention to the most comprehensive advisory for Russian citizens regarding the regional situation, available on the official Telegram channel of the Foreign Ministry: https://t.me/MID_Russia/74885. This includes up-to-date contact details for our foreign missions, the 24/7 hotline of the Foreign Ministry’s Crisis Management Centre, and potential evacuation routes from the region.

Mar. 2: Russian President Vladimir Putin phone call with Emirati President Muhammad bin Zayed

The discussion focused on the unprecedented and tragic events in the Middle East in light of the United States and Israel’s aggression against Iran as well as the harsh retaliatory measures by Tehran. Both sides emphasised the necessity to cease hostilities and return to a political and diplomatic process.

Vladimir Putin noted that the Russian side had done much to promote a peaceful settlement of the situation surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme and to find mutually acceptable compromises. The Emirati side has played an active role in the process as well. However, this groundwork has been sabotaged by the unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign state that is a member of the United Nations in violation of the fundamental principles of international law. The President of Russia thanked Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his efforts aimed at providing support to the Russian nationals in the UAE, including the numerous tourists, in the midst of the current force majeure situation.

The President of the UAE emphasised that Iran’s retaliation had directly affected the Emirates, causing damage to the country and posing a threat to civilians. He said these strikes were carried out despite the fact that the UAE was not being used to mount attacks on Iran and were therefore completely unjustified. For his part, Vladimir Putin expressed his willingness to convey these signals to Tehran and, more broadly, to provide all possible assistance in order to stabilise the situation in the region.

The leaders agreed to remain in close contact.

Mar. 2: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 2, Presidents of Russia & the UAE spoke over the phone.

The Leaders discussed the unprecedented tragic developments in the Middle East.

They emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire & a return to the political & diplomatic track.

Mar. 2: Russian President Vladimir Putin phone call with Qatar’s Emir Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani

The primary focus was placed on the acute crisis in the Middle East, provoked by the United States and Israel’s aggression against Iran. This flagrant violation of international law has led to grave and tragic consequences for the Iranian people.

Both sides expressed concern about the risks of the conflict escalating and the threat of third countries becoming involved. At the same time, they expressed hope that Iran’s retaliation would not cause any harm to civilians and civilian infrastructure, including tourism and transportation facilities, of neighbouring countries.

The Emir of Qatar expressed gratitude for the support of the regional states in the current difficult situation. He also emphasised that cooperation with Russia in various sectors remained a priority for them.

Both sides expressed hope for a swift de-escalation of the conflict and a return to resolving differences via political and diplomatic means, based on mutual respect and equality

The leaders agreed to continue Russia-Qatar contacts through various channels.

Mar. 2: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 2, President Vladimir #Putin & Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held a telephone conversation

The discussion focused primarily on the crisis in the Middle East triggered by the US-Israeli aggression against #Iran

Mar. 2: Russian President Vladimir Putin phone call with Bahrain’s King Hamad

There was an exchange of views on the unprecedented escalation of the situation surrounding Iran resulting from the United States and Israel’s aggression, bringing the entire region to the brink of a full-scale war with unpredictable consequences. Both sides emphasised the need for ceasing hostilities as soon as possible in order to prevent the situation from spiralling out of control and return it to a political and diplomatic framework.

The current course of events, among its many negative consequences, puts the security of many Arab states with which Russia maintains friendly relations in jeopardy. Taking all this into account, Vladimir Putin confirmed Russia’s willingness to actively contribute to stabilising the situation in the region using all available means.

The leaders agreed to maintain contact.

Mar. 2: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 2, the Leaders of Russia & Bahrain spoke over the phone.

They exchanged views on the unprecedented escalation around Iran resulting from the US-Israeli aggression.

Both Sides stressed the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire.

Mar. 2: Russian President Vladimir Putin phone call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

Both sides expressed serious concern over the real risks of geographical expansion of the conflict, which has already affected several Arab states and is fraught with potentially catastrophic consequences. In this regard, Vladimir Putin emphasised the need to resolve the extremely dangerous situation at hand via political and diplomatic means.

In turn, Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud opined that the Russian side could presently play a positive, stabilising role, given the friendly ties it has with both Iran and the Gulf states.

Mar. 2: Russian Foreign Ministry post

President Vladimir #Putin and Crown Prince & PM of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud spoke over a phone

The Leaders had a discussion of the escalation in the Middle East resulting from the US and Israel’s armed aggression

Mar. 2: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan

On March 2, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. The two foreign ministers exchanged perspectives on the situation around Iran, which has arisen as a result of the aggression committed by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic. It was observed that the unprecedented escalation of the conflict harbours unpredictable consequences for the entire region. Concern was articulated regarding the risk of third countries, particularly the Arab states of the Persian Gulf, becoming embroiled in the conflict. The ministers emphasised that Russia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia advocate for the immediate cessation of all hostilities and the prioritisation of measures to prevent attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, both within Iran and in the neighbouring states.

Sergey Lavrov and Faisal bin Farhan agreed to maintain continuous communication in the interests of a peaceful resolution to the situation.

Mar. 2: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 2, Foreign Minister Sergey #Lavrov had a telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud

The Ministers emphasised that Russia and Saudi Arabia advocate for the immediate cessation of all hostilities

Mar. 2: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi

[Busaidi] noted that under Oman’s mediation, Iran-U.S. negotiations made unprecedented progress, yet regrettably, the U.S. and Israel have cast aside the existing outcomes of the talks and launched a war. If the war continues, it will lead to more casualties and property losses. All parties should work together for an early ceasefire. As a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council, China always abides by the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter and is a positive force to be relied upon. Oman hopes that China will play an important role under the current sensitive and complex circumstances. Oman will do its utmost to safeguard the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in Oman.

Wang Yi said that China appreciates Oman’s active mediation in advancing the negotiations between Iran and the U.S. and its tremendous efforts for safeguarding regional peace. Despite progress in the talks, the U.S. and Israel deliberately provoked a war against Iran, which clearly violates the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter. China believes that the pressing task now is to immediately cease military actions to prevent further spillover of the conflict and avert an irreversible deterioration. China urges all parties to make joint efforts to this end and support Oman in staying true to its original aspiration and continuing its mediation efforts. China also stands ready to play a constructive role,  including upholding fairness and justice at the U.N. Security Council and striving for peace and stopping the war

Wang Yi said that China values the legitimate appeals of Gulf states and supports them in upholding their sovereignty and national security. Spillover of the war does not serve the fundamental and long-term interests of Gulf states. China expects that Gulf states will enhance their independence, oppose external interference, develop good neighborliness, and strengthen solidarity and coordination, so as to truly hold their future firmly in their own hands.

Mar. 2: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Omani FM Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi.

Against the backdrop of progress in the negotiations between #Iran and the #US, the deliberate provocation of war against Iran by the U.S. and #Israel constitutes a clear violation of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.

China supports Gulf countries in safeguarding their sovereignty and national security. The spillover of the war does not serve the fundamental and long-term interests of countries in the Gulf region. 

Mar. 2: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot

Barrot shared the French perspective on the current situation in the Middle East, underscoring that France and China, both permanent members of the U.N. Security Council, have special responsibility for upholding international peace and security. The U.S and Israel did not seek the opinions from the U.N. Security Council regarding their military action against Iran, nor did they obtain authorization from the Council. All parties should work together to de-escalate the tensions and resolve such issues as the Iranian nuclear issue through negotiation. China has maintained good relations with both Iran and other Gulf states. France looks forward to joining hands with China to proactively ease the situation in the region.

Wang Yi reiterated China’s principled position, stressing that the international community should reject any act that violates international law and refrain from applying double standards. Major countries must not be allowed to attack others at will with their military might, nor should the world revert to the law of the jungle. The Iranian nuclear issue should eventually return to the track of political and diplomatic settlement. China hopes that France will uphold an objective and just position, remain calm and rational, and work with China to de-escalate the situation, jointly safeguarding the basic norms of international relations.

Mar. 2: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with French FM Jean-Noel Barrot.

Major countries must not rely on their military superiority to attack others at will, and the world must not return to the law of the jungle. The Iranian nuclear issue must eventually return to the path of political and diplomatic resolution.

#China hopes that #France will uphold an objective and fair stance, and work with China to promote the de-escalation of the situation and jointly safeguard the basic norms of international relations.

Mar. 2: Statement by the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

The Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) express serious concern over the developments in the Middle East and the military strikes on the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The SCO Member States consider the use of force as unacceptable and advocate for the resolution of existing differences exclusively by peaceful means, based on dialogue, mutual respect, and taking into account the legitimate interests of all parties, in accordance with the norms of the international law and the principles of the UN Charter.

The SCO Member States underscore the need to ensure sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of Iran, and call on all parties to exercise restraint and to refrain from actions that could aggravate the situation.

The SCO Member States strongly urge the United Nations and the UN Security Council to take immediate measures to counteract the undermining of international peace and security.

The SCO Member States express sincere condolences to the families of those murdered as a result of the attack and declare their solidarity with and support for the Government and the people of Iran.

Mar. 3: Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning press conference 

Q: After the U.S. and Israel started their military operation on Iran, conflict is now expanding through the Middle East. Israel is reported to target Tehran and Beirut at the same time and several neighboring countries hosting U.S. bases are targeted in retaliatory strikes by Iran as well. What’s China’s comment?

A: The U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran have no UN Security Council authorization and violate international law. China is deeply concerned over the regional spillover. China believes that the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the Gulf states should likewise be fully respected. We urge parties to stop the military operations and prevent further spread of the conflict.

Q: In Israel’s attacks against Iran, we saw a girls’ school was bombed on Saturday. And more recently, Iran’s public broadcaster IRIB’s buildings in Tehran were targeted in military attacks. We are now witnessing a similar, dangerous pattern of targeting civilians, civilian facilities, children, journalists, like we have seen before in Gaza. What is China’s comment about these acts?

A: China is deeply saddened by the massive civilian casualties caused by U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran. We strongly condemn that. Protection of civilians in armed conflicts is a red line and must not be violated. Indiscriminate use of force cannot be accepted. China calls on all parties to fulfill their obligations under international law, effectively ensure the safety of civilians, and avoid attacks on civilian facilities...

Q: We’ve reported that China is pressuring Iranian officials to avoid any action that would disrupt Qatari gas exports or other shipments making their way through the Strait of Hormuz. Would the Ministry like to comment on this?

A: “Energy security is very important for the world economy. All parties have the responsibility to ensure stable and unimpeded energy supply. China urges all parties to stop the military operations at once, avoid further escalation, keep the shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz safe, and prevent further impact on the global economy.”

Mar. 3: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning post

FM Wang Yi on China’s position regarding Iran situation:

1. Immediate stop to the military operations;

2. Return to dialogue and negotiation ASAP;

3. Joint opposition to unilateral actions.

Mar. 3: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning post

China strongly condemns the massive civilian casualties caused by U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran. Protection of civilians in armed conflicts is a red line and must not be violated. Indiscriminate use of force cannot be accepted.

Mar. 3: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning post

China stands for the peaceful settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue through dialogue and negotiation, and respects Iran’s legitimate right to peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Mar. 3: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with Israeli Foreign Minister

On March 3, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar upon request.

After listening to Gideon Sa’ar’s briefing on Israel’s views on the current situation, Wang Yi noted that China consistently advocates the settlement of international and regional hotspot issues through dialogue and consultation. All parties should abide by the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter, and refrain from using or threatening to use force in international relations. This also serves the fundamental interests of all parties, including Israel. Over the years, China has been committed to advancing the political settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue. The recent negotiations between Iran and the U.S. had been making notable progress, which also took into account Israel’s security concerns. Regrettably, this process has been disrupted by military strikes. China opposes such strikes launched by Israel and the U.S. against Iran. The use of force cannot truly solve problems. Instead, it will create new ones and leave severe aftereffects. The real value of military might lies not on the battlefield, but in the prevention of war. China calls for immediate cessation of military actions to prevent the conflict from further escalating and spiraling out of control. On the Middle East issue, China always upholds a just position and will continue playing a constructive role in de-escalating the situation. Wang Yi called on Israel to take concrete measures to ensure the safety and security of Chinese personnel and institutions. Sa’ar noted that Israel attaches great importance to this and will do so.

Mar. 3: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Israeli FM Gideon Sa’ar.

China opposes the military strikes against #Iran launched by #Israel and the #US. The use of force cannot truly resolve the issue and will instead bring new problems and grave repercussions.

China calls for an immediate cessation of military operations to prevent the flames of war from spreading further and spiraling out of control.

Mar. 3: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov press conference (excerpts)

From introductory remarks: 

Undoubtedly, the most prominent conflict—indeed, war—of the current day is the aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran. Its repercussions are already being felt across the region, including in Arab states, which are also bearing costs, both economic and human.

We deem it imperative to categorically and resolutely call for an immediate cessation of hostilities from all sides. As an unconditional first step, every effort must be made to halt any actions resulting in civilian casualties, whether in Iran—where more than 150 schoolgirls perished in a strike on their school—or in any other country bordering the Persian Gulf. Civilian infrastructure is also suffering in our friendly Arab states.

As I have emphasised, all such actions must cease—as must the war itself. We regularly hear claims about its objectives, yet we have seen no evidence that Iran was developing nuclear weapons—the primary, if not sole, justification for this war. Confirmation from the IAEA and American intelligence professionals affirms that Iran neither produced nor attempted to produce nuclear weapons...

From Q&A session:

Q: The US recently stated that in its operation against Iran, it will go as far as American interests require. Since the start of the US-Israeli strikes on Iran, we have already seen hundreds of civilian casualties, including children, as you said. Do you think we can expect any sanctions, and does the UN have the power to stop the Western aggression in the Middle East?

A: On the specific question of Iran, Marco Rubio, in response to a journalist recently, suggested the possibility of the United States effectively running the country. It is reminiscent of what they announced regarding Venezuela. We are now seeing a similar approach being floated in relation to Cuba. And it probably won’t stop there. We have President Trump’s plan for Palestine, which Arab states have indicated a willingness to support. China and Russia did not oppose that plan in the Security Council. But that plan, too, does not provide for the implementation of the long-standing UN resolution on the establishment of both an Israeli and a Palestinian state. The State of Israel is well-established and, as you can see, highly active. A Palestinian state, however, does not exist. Even the theoretical possibility of its creation is fading by the day, as 90 percent of the land in the West Bank is now occupied by illegal settlements. The Gaza Strip has been devastated. Various plans are being discussed, but the idea that Palestinians should be the masters of their own land is notably absent from those discussions.

Returning to your question about the UN’s role. When the aggression against Iran began, we, together with China, called for a Security Council meeting, where we set out our fundamental assessments. Under the current circumstances, I believe that was the maximum we could achieve. The United States, as a permanent member of the Security Council, will simply not allow any decision to be taken that it perceives as contrary to its interests, the way they see them. The other two Western members of the Council—France and Britain—are trying to maintain some distance from Washington’s actions. Even so, President Trump has publicly criticised Prime Minister Keir Starmer for not providing military support for the US operations. Neither Paris nor London is going to stand in the way of what the United States is doing now. This isn’t really just about this particular crisis. It is a reflection of a much deeper problem that has now come to the surface. It is essentially a clash between international law and a world without international law we saw in the 19th century, before the understandings reached after World War I, and later, after World War II, when the UN Charter was adopted and the United Nations was founded. For the United States, the Charter no longer seems to be a binding framework in these discussions. They are quite open about it. I still believe this dialogue is essential...

Q: You have already mentioned Russia’s call to end the hostilities in Iran, and you have stated that sanctions are an unacceptable instrument for resolving the crisis, while international law has proven ineffective in this case. In this context, what diplomatic or other mechanisms could help prevent further escalation and the expansion of the conflict? In other words, what steps could halt the current actions of Israel and the US, and how would you assess the level of danger posed by the developments in the Middle East?

A: I am convinced that the only viable mechanisms are political and diplomatic in nature. We have been actively supporting Oman’s mediation efforts. I remain in contact with my good friend, Omani Foreign Minister Badr Al-Busaidi, who took part in the indirect talks between the United States and Iran held in Geneva last Friday. Both he and the Iranian Foreign Minister praised the most recent round of discussions. At least, he spoke with optimism about their outcome, noting that some more time was needed. All parties noted that another meeting would take place, and that it could potentially be the decisive round.

Today, I watched a video recording of remarks by Steve Witkoff, the US negotiator on a wide range of issues, including those related to Ukraine. He was asked why the talks had come to such an abrupt end. He responded—and this is publicly available information—that Iran continued to insist on what it considers its inalienable right to enrich uranium. According to him, he and Jared Kushner concluded that, given this position, the negotiations would not yield results and that it was necessary to end the process and consider alternative approaches.

But no one has ever challenged the fundamental right to uranium enrichment as a principle applicable to all states without exception that are parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. We have consistently played a mediating role, as the President of the Russian Federation has repeatedly noted. Israel has engaged with us on this issue, and our Iranian counterparts have visited us many times.

We have always maintained that any settlement must be achieved through political and diplomatic means, based on respect for the legitimate and inalienable rights of every state, including, of course, Iran, in accordance with international law.

The right to the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, including uranium enrichment for civilian purposes, is inalienable and was not disputed in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) aimed at resolving the Iranian nuclear issue. This right is grounded in the UN Charter, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and the IAEA principles. At the same time, the JCPOA established mutually agreed limitations on the exercise of this right. We are convinced that the same approach should be applied in the current situation. Several possible settlement options have been proposed, and this issue has been personally addressed by President of Russia Vladimir Putin. Our colleagues in Israel, the United States, Iran, and the Gulf states are all aware of the efforts we have undertaken in this regard. However, expecting Iran to be the only country in the world to relinquish a right that belongs to all other states is not a realistic position. It is possible that Steve Witkoff expressed himself imprecisely, but if this was indeed presented as the reason for escalation, it raises a number of serious questions.

As for what mechanisms could be used now, I can recall our initiatives to establish collective security in the Persian Gulf, which envisioned full normalisation of relations between Iran, its neighbours, and the Arab monarchies. This initiative is over 25 years old. We have consistently implemented relevant measures, which allowed Saudi Arabia and Iran to agree to restore relations a couple of years ago. Iran also maintains relations with several other countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Under the previous administration, the United States was reluctant to support this concept, nor were European countries interested in it. If it had somehow taken root and formed real mechanisms and structures, perhaps the risks would not have been as serious as they were before the war.

If we consider the Middle East region more broadly, another mechanism that operated there is the well-known Quartet, which included Russia, the United States, the European Union, and the United Nations. It addressed the Palestinian issue, making many sound decisions that only remained on paper: first and foremost, the decision on practical steps toward creating a Palestinian state.

In the end this, too, was blocked. Under US President Joe Biden, the Americans withdrew from it, as did the Europeans. The UN, represented by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, effectively took note of this situation. So there has been no shortage of attempts, but as the saying goes, it is no use crying over spilt milk.

Yesterday, President of Russia Vladimir Putin spoke with a number of his counterparts from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar. They discussed ways to quickly end the bloodshed, declaring that they were strictly against military action and emphasising that it must cease immediately. Of particular importance is the need to prevent any actions that threaten civilian lives or involve attacks on civilian infrastructure, whether in Iran or in the neighbouring Arab states. Let us recall rumors that the US and Israel would start another war against Iran began spreading long ago. Over the entire period preceding the current crisis, the Gulf Arab countries publicly stated that they would not take part in this gamble, or provide their airspace for strikes against Iran, and or allow foreign military bases on their territory to be used for these purposes. Therefore, we understand their position and will seek to use our capabilities, including our contacts with the Islamic Republic of Iran, to prevent further escalation and to help resolve the situation.

As follows from statements made by President Donald Trump, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, and State Secretary Marco Rubio, the United States has declared that it will continue military actions as long as it deems necessary. No one knows its ultimate objective. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had been killed; President Donald Trump made remarks to that effect, while Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth later stated that there had been no intention to assassinate him.

Of course, in order to mediate effectively, there must be clear understanding which direction the parties are moving in. At present, we can see no understanding with respect to the goals of our American counterparts. Nevertheless, we have never interrupted open dialogue with either the United States or Israel. We believe that any concerns expressed by our Israeli partners and by Washington can and should be resolved through political and diplomatic means. Following the most recent round of Geneva talks last Friday, we had the impression that the parties were very close to reaching a political solution.

Q: Yesterday, Israel announced it was calling up 100,000 reservists and declared preparations for a land operation in Lebanon. This morning the Israeli army reported that they took positions in South Lebanon. How does Russia regard these statements and risks of a possible escalation in the Lebanon sector?

A: Actually, you have answered your question yourself.

Of course, it is an escalation, a withdrawal from the agreements reached with respect of Lebanon, the status of South Lebanon, Hezbollah and of what positions the parties should hold on either bank of the Litani River. There are many agreements. They are being violated now.

Israel says that Hezbollah began defending Iran, therefore they delivered many strikes on Lebanon. This is an endless cycle that can never be broken, unless people get together and consider the entire set of these issues.

A Middle East conference, which we have proposed for years, would be highly appropriate right now. Absent such a forum, where all sides are represented and each has the opportunity to defend, prove and explain to the others its point of view and search for a balance of forces, it turns out that all the problems in the region are being solved by certain states. The way it is happening with the Gaza Strip, with the West Bank of the Jordan River, with Lebanon, and with the Islamic Republic of Iran...

Q: How serious do you think the threat to global nuclear security is today, given the conflict in the Middle East?

A: The threat is not just present; it is escalating. As I mentioned earlier, the stated rationale for the aggressive action against Iran was the belief that Tehran was pursuing nuclear weapons. Yet, following the 12-day war in June 2025, the United States declared that all components and all work on such a weapon had been destroyed.

But, if this war—as Steve Witkoff’s remarks, which I quoted, suggested—was truly launched to deprive Iran of its inalienable right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes (a right enjoyed by virtually every other country in the world), then I can assure you that, if that logic prevails, we will see powerful forces and influential movements emerge inside Iran arguing that they should do precisely what the United States claims it wants to prevent—acquire a nuclear bomb. Because the United States does not attack nuclear-armed states.

People often cite the example of Muammar Gaddafi. He voluntarily gave up his nuclear weapons programme. And some of our interlocutors in the Global South are quick to remind us of that fact. They say: Gaddafi abandoned his programme, and look what happened to him. Those who didn’t? They aren’t being attacked.

This war, which has now been unleashed against Iran, could very well become the catalyst for a movement in favour of developing nuclear weapons, and not just in Iran. Such a movement would almost certainly emerge in the Arab countries neighbouring the Islamic Republic. So, the declared noble goal of preventing nuclear proliferation could, paradoxically, set in motion the very opposite trend...

Mar. 3: Russian Foreign Ministry repost

On March 3, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Natalia Shmeleva visited the Embassy of Iran in Islamabad and signed the condolence book opened in tribute to the memory of the assassinated Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, and members of his family.

Mar. 3: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi

The foreign ministers discussed Iran-related developments and spoke in favour of an early cessation of hostilities and resuming the efforts leading to political and diplomatic settlement. The parties emphasised the urgent need to bring into the equation the legitimate interests of all Arab states in the Gulf.

The sides noted Russia and Oman’s readiness to facilitate, including within the UN, the search for compromise peaceful solutions based on respect for the fundamental provisions of international law.

Sergey Lavrov expressed gratitude to the Sultanate government for helping the Russian citizens stranded in the UAE return home via Oman.

Mar. 3: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 3, Foreign Ministers of Russia & Oman spoke over the phone.

The Ministers discussed the situation around Iran. 

They confirmed Russia’s & Oman’s readiness to facilitate the search for compromise-based peaceful solutions.

Mar. 3: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

On March 3, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a telephone conversation with Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran Abbas Araghchi. They discussed the situation that followed the US and Israel’s unprovoked military aggression in the region. The ministers emphasised that such actions undermine the fundamental norms of international law and carry grave consequences for the entire Middle East. This position was clearly reiterated by Russia’s representative at the United Nations Security Council meeting.

Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed Russia’s principled position in support of de-escalation, rejection of force, and a transition to a political and diplomatic settlement of the conflict, as well as Russia’s readiness to fully support such efforts. He also underscored the priority of ensuring the safety of civilians and protecting civilian infrastructure in all the countries of the region.

Mar. 3: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 3, FMs of Russia & Iran spoke over the phone.

The Ministers stressed that the unprovoked armed aggression by the US & Israel undermines the fundamental norms of international law & entails the gravest consequences for the entire Middle East.

Mar. 3: Russian Foreign Ministry repost

Russia & China objected to the adoption of the US-drafted UNSC PoW for March.

We were compelled to take this step because the provisional PoW included a briefing on the work of the 1737 Sanctions Committee concerning #Iran.

Mar. 4: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: Could you update us on what the Chinese government has done in protecting the Chinese nationals in Iran and neighboring countries as well as what is planned next?

A: Since the security situation in Iran turned tense, the Chinese side has made démarches to relevant parties, urging them to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals in Iran and its neighboring countries. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chinese diplomatic missions in relevant countries have issued alerts more than once. They have worked in various ways to call on Chinese citizens in Iran to evacuate as soon as possible and offer them assistance and advise those in neighboring countries to take safety precautions. These Chinese diplomatic missions have been working around the clock to assist with the evacuation. After the strikes began, another 470-plus Chinese citizens have been evacuated by our missions in Iran. 

Given the severe security situation in Iran, we once again advise Chinese citizens in Iran to take extra safety precautions and leave as soon as possible while keeping the diplomatic missions informed of their latest condition. At present, they can leave the country via the following border crossings: Astara in Azerbaijan, Agarak in Armenia, Van, Ağrı, and Hakkari in Türkiye, Shalamcheh in Iraq, and Bajgiran in Turkmenistan. Chinese citizens can enter Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Türkiye visa-free with their passports. They may enter Iraq after applying for an e-visa in advance, and enter Turkmenistan after submitting documents required and obtaining a visa in advance. Working groups from Chinese embassies and consulates in relevant countries are already at these border crossings ready to offer assistance. Their contact information can be found in the consular alerts posted by their respective missions. 

As some of Iran’s neighboring countries affected by the military operations close airspace and suspend international flights, some Chinese citizens’ travel plans may have been disrupted. We advise those planning to travel to affected countries and regions near Iran to postpone their trip. For those already there, do take stronger precautions and avoid sensitive zones including military facilities and demonstrations and assemblies. In case of emergency, call the police and contact the Chinese embassies or consulates for assistance...

Q: A question related to Iran also. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said today they control the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for oil and gas. They say any vessels seeking to pass through the Strait risk damage from missiles or drones. Is China concerned about this new development and are you in contact with the relevant Iranian authorities on this subject?

A: The Strait of Hormuz and its adjacent waters are an important international trade route for goods and energy. To keep the region secure and stable serves the common interests of the international community. China urges relevant parties to immediately stop military operations, avoid further escalation of the tense situation and prevent regional turmoil from causing greater damage to global economic growth.

Mar. 4: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

The Strait of Hormuz and its adjacent waters are an important international trade route for goods and energy. To keep the region secure and stable serves the common interests of the international community.

China urges relevant parties to immediately stop military operations, avoid further escalation of the tense situation and prevent regional turmoil from causing greater damage to global economic growth.

Mar. 4: Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson repost

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson: Since the security situation in Iran turned tense, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Chinese diplomatic missions in Iran have issued alerts more than once. They have worked in various ways to call on Chinese citizens to evacuate as soon as possible and offer them assistance. As of March 2, Beijing time, over 3,000 Chinese citizens have been evacuated from Iran. Chinese diplomatic missions in Iran’s neighboring countries have sent working groups to receive and assist the evacuated Chinese citizens at border ports.

Given the severe security situation in Iran, we once again advise the Chinese citizens in Iran to take extra safety precautions and leave Iran as soon as possible. If any help is needed, please contact the Chinese embassy and consulate in Iran or dial consular protection hotline 12308.

Mar. 4: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan

[Farhan] briefed Wang Yi on the latest developments of the situation in the Middle East, saying that Saudi Arabia does not wish to see the region engulfed in war. However, it is concerning that the conflict continues to spread and shows signs of further escalation. Saudi Arabia has exercised restraint while reserving its right to self-defense, and expresses the hope that the crisis can be steered away from further escalation and move towards de-escalation. Saudi Arabia appreciates China’s emphasis on regional security and stability and its active role in this regard. The Saudi side stands ready to step up communication and coordination with China to promote peace, end hostilities, and achieve peace and stability in the Middle East at an early date.

Wang Yi said that the spread of the conflict in the Middle East, affecting Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, is not what China wishes to see. No matter the justification, the indiscriminate use of force is unacceptable, and any attack on innocent civilians and non-military targets should be condemned. China appreciates Saudi Arabia’s restraint and adherence to peaceful means in resolving differences. Reconciliation among regional countries is hard-won and deserves to be cherished and advanced. China has always been a steadfast force for peace, stands ready to continue playing a constructive role, and will dispatch its special envoy on the Middle East issue to regional countries for mediation. The Chinese side strongly urges all parties to cease military actions, return to dialogue and negotiation at an early date, and prevent further escalation of tensions.

Mar. 4: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Saudi FM Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.

The spreading and escalating conflict in the Middle East, affecting Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries, is not what China wishes to see. China appreciates Saudi Arabia’s restraint and its commitment to resolving differences through peaceful means.

China strongly urges all parties to cease military operations, return to dialogue and negotiations at an early date, and prevent further escalation of tensions.

Mar. 4: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with Emirati Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed al-Nahyan

Nahyan briefed Wang Yi on the regional situation and the UAE’s stance, noting that the UAE is not a party to the war, nor has it participated in the conflict, and thus should not be subject to unlawful attacks. The UAE appreciates that China always upholds an objective and just position, and hopes China will continue to play a significant and positive role in preventing the escalation of regional tensions amid the current grave situation. The UAE will continue to take measures to protect the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions.

Wang Yi reiterated China’s principled position on the current situation in Iran, saying the spillover of the war serves no one’s interests and the ultimate victims can only be the people in the region. The red line of protecting civilians in conflicts must not be crossed, non-military targets such as energy, economy and people’s livelihood should not be attacked, and the safety of waterways should be upheld. China expressed appreciation for the UAE’s efforts to strive for peace even before the war, and the recent Extraordinary Meeting of the Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for its emphasis that dialogue and diplomacy are the only way to overcome the current crisis and maintain regional security. China supports the UAE’s legitimate aspiration for upholding national security, and supports regional countries in continuing to resolve differences through diplomatic means. China will not give up hope for peace and will continue to play a constructive role in promoting peace. The Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue will be sent to the region for mediation to help restore peace and stability. China hopes the UAE will continue to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in the UAE.

Mar. 4: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with the Deputy PM and FM of the UAE, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The spillover of war is not in the interests of any party, and only the people of the region will suffer. China supports the UAE’s legitimate demands for safeguarding its national security and supports regional countries in seeking to resolve disputes through diplomatic means.

China will not give up hope for peace and will continue to play a constructive role.

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein

The foreign ministers exchanged views on Iran-related developments, emphasising the urgency of stopping hostilities and returning to the path of political and diplomatic settlement. They called on all parties to the conflict to refrain from attacking civilian infrastructure and causing harm to civilians.

They also discussed a number of important bilateral issues.

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 4, FMs of Russia & Iraq spoke over the phone.

The Ministers emphasised the need for an early cessation of hostilities in the conflict around Iran & for returning the situation to the track of a political & diplomatic settlement.

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry repost

On March 4, 2026, Levan Dzhagaryan, the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Sri Lanka, signed the Book of Condolences at Iranian Ambassador’s Residence in Colombo following the passing of Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei.

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: There is no doubt that the alleged Iranian threat was merely a pretext for implementing a plan to violently overthrow the constitutional order in a sovereign UN member state.

Washington does not even try to conceal that it is seeking “regime change” in Iran.

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: Violence that is leading to a growing number of civilian casualties must be stopped.

In Iran, 165 people have been killed as a result of a barbaric attack on a school in Minab—an atrocity largely ignored in the West. 

Most of the victims were schoolgirls.

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: The legitimate authorities of #Iran are in control of the situation in the country, preventing chaos outbreak.

However, the unleashed military campaign entails the gravest consequences for civilians & civilian infrastructure, for the regional and global economy

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: Russia & China maintain the closest coordination—both between Moscow & Beijing and at international venues, including the UN Security Council—amid large-scale military aggression against Iran, carried out despite Tehran’s openness to dialogue.

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: It is clear that the geography of armed confrontation—triggered by the US-Israeli aggression against Iran—continues to spread across the Middle East.

Washington & Tel Aviv bear full responsibility for this latest escalation.

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: From the very first day of the US-Israeli aggression against Iran, Russia has been conducting active diplomatic efforts.

The President of Russia has already held phone calls with several Arab leaders, while our Foreign Minister spoke with his counterparts.

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: We expect the @iaeaorg leadership to find the resolve to respond clearly to the lawlessness committed by the US & Israel in Iran, providing an impartial assessment of potential radiological risks

Attempts to downplay the scale of this real threat are unacceptable

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: @vonderleyen says the people of Iran have gained “new hope for the future”, justifying the removal of the legitimate leaders of sovereign states.

How many innocents—including children—must be killed for this “hope”? It’s a non-question, they simply don’t care.

Mar. 4: Remarks at Russian Foreign Ministry briefing [excerpts]

The events in the Middle East cannot simply be referred to as a situation surrounding Iran. Let us call things by their proper name. This is about an aggression by Washington and Tel Aviv against Iran and, unfortunately, the crisis getting wider.

We are observing with great concern what we have repeatedly talked about earlier, and what Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has spoken about in detail. We see—and everyone is now clear—that we are witnessing an unprecedented escalation of tension in the region which stems from an unprovoked attack on Iran by the United States and Israel. Through their irresponsible and reckless actions, Washington and Tel Aviv are—let me use a phrase that may not be widely used in international law but accurately describes what is happening on the ground—wreaking havoc, blatantly tearing up norms and principles of international and humanitarian law, and plunging the region ever deeper into chaos. The international community must provide its objective and uncompromising assessment of these acts of lawlessness.

Russia has strongly denounced yet another dangerous adventure by the American-Israeli tandem against the Islamic Republic, the cowardly killing of Iran’s head of state Ayatollah Khamenei and several members of the country’s top military and political leadership.

Our principled position has been set out in relevant Foreign Ministry statements, addresses at the UN Security Council, and during the special session of the IAEA Board of Governors. It is consistently communicated in regular contacts with our foreign partners at all levels, including the top level. We advocate for the immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to the political and diplomatic process aimed at resolving the existing problems based on the UN Charter and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, while ensuring the security interests of all states in the region.

There is no doubt that the perceived (as has been repeatedly stated over many years, entirely fabricated) Iranian threat was merely a pretext to implement a long-conceived plan to forcibly depose the constitutional order in a sovereign UN member state that Washington and Tel Aviv find inconvenient, while the renewed negotiating process served as a cover operation. Is there anything new about this? No, there isn’t. For years, we have witnessed negotiating processes being used precisely as a cover for plans to overthrow or change regimes, militarise certain countries, or escalate conflicts.

In fact, Washington is no longer hiding this and openly states that it seeks regime change in Iran. The failed colour revolution scenario triggered the dramatic events. In January, the opponents of the Islamic Republic attempted unsuccessfully to impose it on Iranian society and the Iranian people who have lived for long years under the burden of their sanctions. This burden did not come out of nowhere. It has its architects and implementers: all those who in fact wanted to change the regime in Iran. Previously, they relied on illegal and illegitimate sanctions, the chokehold of economic blockade, and every other method they could come up with. When that failed, they moved on to the next scenario.

The current calls by Western countries for Iranians to “take power into their own hands” are no coincidence. I will say once again what everyone is already aware of: this is an egregious interference in internal affairs of a sovereign state. It is all the more cynical and inhumane to hear appeals for Iranians to take, as the West puts it, power in their own hands at a time when that same West is literally tearing off the Iranians’ hands.

Against this backdrop, it should be noted that Iran’s legitimate authorities are controlling the situation in the country and preventing chaos, a power vacuum, or a humanitarian crisis.

Nevertheless, the military campaign unleashed against Iran is causing severe consequences for civilians and infrastructure, as well as for regional and global economies. Air travel has been disrupted, logistics chains broken, energy supplies destabilised, and energy prices are skyrocketing. Iranian nuclear facilities are again under threat, which not only harms the global non-proliferation regime but also carries serious radiological risks on the ground rather than just on paper. Thousands of foreigners, civilians, and tourists, including children, are stranded. This also concerns Russian citizens who have been unable to return home in time due to this reckless adventure. Facilities in friendly Arab countries of the Persian Gulf have also been targeted, with seriously injured civilians reported.

We strongly and firmly call for the immediate cessation of hostilities by all parties. As a first step, everything must be done to put an end to violence leading to civilian casualties in Iran where, according to recent data, 165 people died in Minab, Hormozgan Province, in an attack on a school. This fact is deliberately concealed in Western media. Violence leading to casualties must be stopped elsewhere in the region as well. We have never kept a tally of “acceptable or unacceptable victims.” We have always shown due sympathy and compassion for all civilians affected by hostilities.

We are deeply concerned by the latest statements coming from the US administration indicating its intention to continue military actions until certain US interests are secured.

Our colleagues at the embassy and trade mission in Tehran, as well as at the consulates general in Isfahan and Rasht, continue to bravely perform their duties despite the difficult wartime circumstances. Missile and bomb strikes landing in close proximity to our diplomatic missions are particularly dangerous. On March 2, missiles exploded within half a kilometre of the embassy and trade mission. We demand that such egregious incidents be prevented and that guarantees be provided for the safety of our diplomatic facilities and other civilian sites where our personnel work. Washington and Tel Aviv have been officially informed of their locations.

We are grateful to the authorities of Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Turkmenistan for assisting in the safe passage of Russian citizens from Iran through the relevant land borders. On March 3, a large group of women and children—family members of embassy staff—was urgently evacuated to Azerbaijan and subsequently flown to Moscow.

Of course, we continue to advise our citizens to refrain from travelling to the Islamic Republic. Those already in the country for various reasons are urged to leave as soon as possible. Those who remain should maintain contact with our diplomats.

We are convinced that the crisis surrounding Iran has no military solution. We strongly call for the abandonment of forceful methods and a return to political and diplomatic resolution of all issues, while ensuring the legitimate security interests of all countries in the region.

On our part, we remain ready to assist in finding peaceful solutions based on international law and with due regard for the security interests of all countries in the region.

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry post

FM of Russia Sergey #Lavrov: 

The conflict of today—essentially a war—is the aggression against Iran.

Its consequences are being felt across the entire region, including Arab states, which are also bearing the costs—both economic & human.

Mar. 4: Russian Foreign Ministry repost

Russian Ambassador to Nigeria A.L.Podelyshev, together with diplomatic mission staff, visited the Embassy of Islamic Republic of Iran in Abuja and signed the book of condolences over the assassination of the Supreme Leader of Iran, Seyyed Ali Khamenei and members of his family.

Mar. 5: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran have ratcheted up regional tensions. What has China done to engage with various parties and deescalate the situation? What else will China do in the future?

A: China is gravely concerned over the tense situation in the Middle East. Over the past few days, China has intensively reached out to various parties. Foreign Minister Wang Yi had phone calls with his counterparts from Russia, Iran, Oman, France, Israel, Saudi Arabia and the UAE for in-depth exchanges of views on regional situation. He stressed that purposes and principles of the UN Charter should be observed and arbitrary use of force in international relations should be rejected. He pointed out that the military operations must stop at once, early return to dialogue and negotiation must be achieved, and further escalation of the tensions and spread of the conflict must be avoided. He called on parties to the conflict to earnestly fulfill their international obligations, ensure civilians’ safety, and avoid any attack against civilian facilities.

The protraction and escalation of the conflict serves no one’s interest. China believes that war and force cannot solve issues once and for all, dialogue and negotiation are the right solutions, and political and diplomatic settlement of disputes and differences should be upheld. China will continue to work with all parties, including parties to the conflict, to maintain communication, further engage with other parties, and build consensus. China will send Zhai Jun, Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue, to the Middle East soon to work actively for the deescalation of the tensions.

Mar. 5: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

China is gravely concerned over the tense situation in the Middle East. Over the past few days, FM Wang Yi had phone calls with his counterparts from Russia, #Iran, Oman, France, #Israel, Saudi Arabia and the UAE for in-depth exchanges of views on the regional situation. He stressed:

• The purposes and principles of the UN Charter should be observed, and the arbitrary use of force in international relations should be rejected.
• Military operations must stop at once, early return to dialogue and negotiation must be achieved, and further escalation of tensions and spread of the conflict must be avoided.
• Parties to the conflict should earnestly fulfill their international obligations, ensure civilians’ safety, and avoid any attack against civilian facilities.

Mar. 5: Russian Foreign Ministry statement

Moscow expresses its deep concern with the deteriorating situation in the Middle East. Having launched a military operation for unseating Iran’s legitimate government under a far-fetched pretext, the United States and Israel do not show any signs of reason or willingness to stop the bloodshed. On the contrary, we keep hearing belligerent statements from their capitals, while the Israeli army has once again invaded Lebanon.

At the same time, the aggressors are seeking to sow discord within the Islamic world during the holy month of Ramadan. They have intentionally provoked Iran into targeting certain Arab countries with retaliatory strikes which have caused human casualties and physical damage. Russia deeply regrets these developments. These efforts are designed to draw Arabs into a war by promoting an alien agenda. Meanwhile, this also diverts the attention from the catastrophic situation of the Palestinian people.

Russia reiterates its call on all parties to the ongoing confrontation to cease hostilities immediately, including the unacceptable strikes targeting the territory of the Arab states in the Persian Gulf. We believe attacks against civilians or civilian sites to be absolutely unacceptable, be it in Iran or countries within the Gulf Cooperation Council. It is also obvious that stopping the aggression by the United States and Israel which spreads suffering among Arabs in what can be described as a chain reaction is the only way to prevent the region from sliding further towards instability.

Mar. 5: Russian Foreign Ministry post

There are no signs that the US & Israel are ready to show restraint & stop the bloodshed.

The aggressors are also seeking to sow division within the Islamic world during the holy month of #Ramadan.

Russia once again calls to cease all hostilities.

Mar. 5: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov remarks at roundtable [excerpts]

However, there are so many other things happening around the world, including the recent developments in the Middle East following the aggression by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran. In this connection, I cannot fail to mention the crisis which has been in the headlines and across our television screens and social media. It can have dire consequences for the entire world, undermine global stability and economy, upend everything which used to be called globalisation, and viewed as a process for bringing about prosperity for the entire humankind. All this has been destroyed.

Civilians have been suffering in Iran, as well as in neighbouring Arab countries following Iran’s retaliatory actions. We express our condolences to all the civilian victims. Civilian infrastructure across all Persian Gulf countries has been damaged, and we can see that.

We do remember that long before the United States and Israel launched their campaign, GCC countries had openly called for refraining from using military force against Iran and resolving all issues through diplomacy and political dialogue. They stated for everyone to hear that they would not open their territory or air space for the sake of unleashing a war against the Islamic Republic of Iran. These were official statements saying that they would not allow foreign military bases on their territories to be used for taking part in this aggression. Nevertheless, they were drawn into this war.

I have no doubt that this was one of the objectives for this operation, which has been called either Lion’s Roar or Epic Fury. Its goals are currently being debated. There are quite a few political figures, including in the United States, who have been struggling to understand the purpose of this operation.

President of the United States Donald Trump has made a public statement claiming that he eliminated Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, since otherwise Khamenei would have eliminated him. Several hours later Defence Secretary of the United States Pete Hegseth said that the United States did not seek to organise Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s killing. We will leave it up to Congress and the political system in the United States which is designed to handle incidents of this kind to decide what the United States wants to achieve in this operation.

I have no doubt that one of the goals consisted of sowing division among countries within this region, i.e., the Persian Gulf countries, Iran and its Arab neighbours. A positive process for bringing their relations back to normal has been gaining traction until recently. Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Iran normalised their relations, and everyone paid attention. Russia was proactive in facilitating this outcome.

In truth, we’ve been promoting a unifying agenda for many years. For over two decades, we’ve held events aimed at building support for the development of a Collective Security Concept for the Persian Gulf—one that would include all littoral states and their key neighbours, and, as we originally envisaged, also involve the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, ensuring transparency, promoting confidence-building measures, and taking concrete steps to use the wealth of this region for the prosperity of its peoples.

Unfortunately, that concept never got off the ground. The West has done everything in its power to block any positive agenda in the Gulf. As the aggression against Iran has now made clear, they operate on a simple “either-or” principle—“either you’re with us, or you’re against us.” And the key to all of this is, as ever, “divide and conquer.” In this particular case, perhaps one might say “divide, pit against each other, and conquer.”

I say this with a deep sense of regret, because we’re talking about our close friends. All those suffering from US and Israeli aggression are our strategic partners. We maintain dialogue with them, and we will do everything we can, alongside other peace-loving members of the international community, including in the UN Security Council and the General Assembly, to help create an atmosphere in which this kind of operation becomes utterly impossible.

But we are talking about the parallels of “friends or foes.” It is what happened in Ukraine. Now the same thing is happening in the Middle East. It is indicative that NATO is now becoming gradually engaged in the war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran, just like it has become gradually involved in Ukrainian affairs.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who produces eloquent testimonies in his statements at every opportunity, said that NATO is ready to enforce the collective defence article in the United States’ operation against Iran. It is claimed that they are prepared for this and what they are doing within the bloc right now is ensuring that every inch of the alliance’s territory is protected, fully, in a 360-degree format.

There is one more commonality. Russian political scientists are widely discussing this topic—the talks. Judging from concurrent comments, the talks between the United States and Venezuela went rather smoothly, but you know how they ended. The talks between the United States and Iran have been running well for quite some time. According to their participants, the talks were nearing success back in June 2025. At the height of the talks, literally the night before the next round, the 12-day war was unleashed—the first act of aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The same happened this time. Last Friday, the parties left Geneva to issue positive and optimistic comments. I spoke to my friend, Foreign Minister of the Sultanate of Oman Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, who acted as an intermediary during the talks. He confirmed that the US and Iranian delegations parted on a positive note. A substantive agreement was quite real. They should have continued, of course, but instead, the talks were cut short. Later, it was announced that the Americans were just “going through the motions” because they had already realised during the previous round, as they claimed, that Iran did not want to fulfill their demands.

Mar. 6: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: Russia and China are supporting Iran “politically and otherwise.” This is according to the Iranian foreign minister. Could you tell us what kind of support that China is providing, politically or otherwise, to Iran? Is there any military or dual use support? 

A: China opposes the U.S. and Israel launching military strikes against Iran in violation of international law. We support Iran in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, territorial integrity and national dignity and in upholding its legitimate and lawful rights and interests. China always advocates resolving issues through political and diplomatic means. We call for an immediate stop to the military actions to prevent the conflict from spreading and spilling over and avoid further escalation of the situation.

Mar. 6: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: China is in talks with Iran to allow crude oil and Qatari liquefied natural gas vessels safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as the U.S.-Israeli war on Tehran intensifies. Diplomatic sources told Reuters. Is the Foreign Ministry able to confirm this?

A: The Strait of Hormuz and its adjacent waters are an important international trade route for goods and energy. To keep the region secure and stable serves the common interests of the international community. China urges relevant parties to immediately stop military operations, avoid further escalation of the tense situation and prevent regional turmoil from causing greater damage to global economic growth.

Mar. 6: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: Airspace closures in some Middle East countries due to the current situation have caused massive travel disruptions, including among Chinese passengers. What steps has the Chinese government taken to provide assistance?

A: We attach high importance to Chinese passengers being stranded in Middle East countries. Since the strikes began, our Ministry has immediately activated emergency response mechanism, and instructed relevant diplomatic missions to engage with their host countries and do everything they can to provide assistance to stranded Chinese compatriots. The Foreign Ministry also urgently worked with the Civil Aviation Administration and other competent authorities for the early resumption of flights by airlines while ensuring safety.

With the joint effort of various parties, positive progress has been made. On the night of March 4, nearly 300 Chinese nationals safely arrived in Guangzhou from Dubai via foreign flight. Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines and Hainan Airlines are gradually resuming round-trip flights to countries including the UAE, Oman and Saudi Arabia starting from March 5.

We once again caution that the current situation in the Middle East remains complex and severe with high uncertainties. We remind Chinese nationals to avoid traveling to countries and regions affected by the military conflict and those who are already there to closely follow relevant information and depart promptly while flights are available. If any help is needed, please contact Chinese embassies and consulates or dial consular protection hotline 12308.

Mar. 6: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: Yesterday, Iran carried out a drone attack on an international airport in Azerbaijan, a country that was in no way involved in the U.S. and Israeli strikes. This is an escalation of the conflict beyond the Middle East region. How does the Foreign Ministry comment on this?

A: We are deeply concerned about the continued tense situation in the Middle East. The pressing priority now is to stop the military operations at once, prevent spillover of the conflict, and avoid further escalation.

Mar. 6: Chinese Foreign Ministry statement

On March 5, 2026, Vice Foreign Minister Miao Deyu went to the Embassy of Iran in China to offer condolences. On behalf of the Chinese side, he expressed deep condolences on the passing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.

Mar. 6: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita

On March 6, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a telephone conversation with [Bourita] at the initiative of the Moroccan side.

During the conversation, which was held in a constructive and trust-based spirit, the ministers discussed the priorities of the further development of the traditionally friendly Russian-Moroccan relations, as well as current regional issues in the context of strengthening bilateral foreign policy coordination.

Mar. 6: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 6, FMs of Russia & Morocco spoke over the phone.

The Sides discussed priority tasks for further developing #RussiaMorocco relations, as well as pressing regional issues in the context of strengthening bilateral foreign policy coordination.

Mar. 6: Russian Foreign Ministry statement

On March 5, Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko visited the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Moscow to express the condolences of Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the assassination of Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, members of his family and officials of the military-political authorities of Iran in the unprovoked US-Israeli aggression.

Andrey Rudenko left a message in the book of condolences for the family and loved ones of the Supreme Leader and the grieving Iranian people. He described the cynical assassination of senior officials of a sovereign state as a challenge to the foundations of international law and universal moral values. The message noted the historical significance of Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khamenei, who has made a major contribution to comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and Iran.

During a brief conversation with Iranian Ambassador Kazem Jalali, Andrey Rudenko expressed solidarity with the Iranian people and wished them fortitude in the courageous struggle for the sovereignty and independence of their homeland.

Mar. 6: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi

The parties exchanged views on the situation in the region, including the negative destabilising consequences of aggression against Iran. They discussed prospects for reducing military-political tensions in Afghan-Pakistani relations. The Russian Foreign Minister emphasised the need for settling the differences between Kabul and Islamabad by political and diplomatic means.

Mar. 6: Russian President Vladimir Putin phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian

Vladimir Putin once again expressed his heartfelt condolences on the assassination of Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, his family members and the country’s military and political leadership, as well as the numerous civilian casualties resulting from the United States and Israel’s armed aggression against Iran.

Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Russia’s principled stance in favour of an immediate cessation of hostilities, the rejection of force as a method to solve any issues surrounding Iran or arising in the Middle East, and a swift return to the path of diplomatic resolution. In this regard, the President of Russia noted that he was in constant contact with the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council member states.

Masoud Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for Russia’s solidarity with the Iranian people as they defend their sovereignty and independence. He also provided a detailed update on the developments during the latest active phase of the conflict.

It was agreed that contact will be maintained with the Iranian side via various channels.

Mar. 6: Russian Foreign Ministry post

President of Russia Vladimir Putin and President of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian spoke over the phone.

Putin reaffirmed Russia’s principled stance for an immediate cessation of hostilities and rejection of force to resolve issues with Iran.

Mar. 7: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi remarks to the press

Q: As more Chinese enterprises go global and more citizens travel abroad, Chinese interests overseas are growing, which means greater responsibility of serving the people through diplomacy. How will the Foreign Ministry better protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese people and businesses overseas?

A: Serving the people is the abiding mission of the diplomatic work of the People’s Republic of China, and strengthening the system of safety protection for Chinese nationals and interests overseas is the unremitting pursuit of the Chinese foreign service in the new era.

In the past year, we dealt with more than 100 major emergencies involving Chinese nationals and institutions overseas, processed over 79,000 cases in which consular protection and assistance are needed, handled over 600,000 phone calls via the 12308 consular hotline, issued over 3,000 overseas security alerts, secured the release of more than 50 Chinese compatriots kidnapped in Africa, and worked with neighboring countries to crack down on online gambling and telecom fraud, bringing back tens of thousands of individuals.

In the past year, we firmly protected the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies abroad, and urged governments of host countries to protect the safety of Chinese personnel and projects. At the same time, we resolutely countered unwarranted suppression targeting Chinese companies, and helped them strengthen risk preparedness and the ability to defend their interests through legal means. Our diplomats have a strong sense of mission. Some of them are stationed for years in regions affected by conflicts and turmoil; some are exposed to a high risk of diseases everyday; and some work and live in modified shipping containers or high-altitudes, low-oxygen environment. But they fulfill their duties with no complaint or regret. As we speak, our embassies and consulates in Iran and other Gulf states are working hard to ensure the evacuation and safety of Chinese nationals. Let me put it this way: Where there is the Chinese flag flying, there are Chinese diplomats on duty; where there is want or need from Chinese compatriots, there is heart-warming care of the Party and the government.

I want to say this to all fellow Chinese abroad: While you may be facing a world of chaos and turbulence, you have behind you a motherland as firm as a rock. We will, as always, put our people first, further strengthen overseas security protection capabilities, and build a security risk prevention system that covers the entire globe.

Mar. 7: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi remarks to the press

On March 8, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated China’s position on economic globalization.

Wang Yi said, the world economy is facing headwinds, and globalization is suffering a backlash. A certain country is erecting tariff barriers and pushing economic and technological decoupling. This is no different from using kindling to put out a fire—you will only get burned. President Xi has reminded everybody that it’s impossible to channel the vast ocean of the global economy back into isolated lakes—it runs counter to the tide of history. Pursuing protectionism is akin to locking oneself in a dark room; it may keep out wind and rain, but it also shuts out light and air.

Wang Yi said, the problems facing economic globalization can only be addressed through more sustainable development and more equitable and effective governance. To this end, President Xi has called for promoting an economic globalization that is universally beneficial and inclusive. The goal is to make the pie of economic globalization bigger and, more importantly, divide it more fairly. The principle is to leave no country behind, and halt the widening wealth gap. The pathway is to encourage countries to draw on each other’s strengths and share opportunities through economic openness, and pursue common development and mutual success through converging interests.

Mar. 7: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi remarks to the press

On March 8, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke of China-U.S. relations.

Wang Yi said, the relationship between China and the United States is one of far-reaching and global implications. Turning our backs on each other would only lead to mutual misperception and miscalculation. Sliding into conflict or confrontation could drag the whole world down. China and the U.S. are both big countries. Neither side can remodel the other, but we can choose how we want to engage, that is, to commit to a spirit of mutual respect, to hold the bottom line of peaceful coexistence, and to strive for the prospect of win-win cooperation. That’s what serves the interests of Chinese and American peoples, and that’s also the expectation of the international community.

Wang Yi said, it is heartening to see that the presidents of the two countries have led by example. By maintaining good interactions at the top level, they have provided important strategic safeguard for the China-U.S. relationship to improve and move forward, and they have brought the relationship back on an even keel after the ups and downs. This year is a “big year” for China-U.S. relations. The agenda of high-level exchanges is already on the table. What the two sides need to do now is to make thorough preparations accordingly, create a suitable environment, manage the risks that do exist, and remove unnecessary disruptions. China is always committed and open. It is critical that the U.S. side work in the same direction. I believe that when the two sides treat each other with sincerity and good faith, we will be able to lengthen the list of cooperation, and shorten the list of problems; we will be able to, under the strategic guidance of the two presidents, produce results that are satisfactory to both peoples, achieve consensus that is welcomed by the whole world, and make 2026 a landmark year of sound, steady and sustainable development of China-U.S. relations.

Mar. 7: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning post

FM Wang Yi: China and the U.S. are both big countries. Neither side can remodel the other, but we can choose how we want to engage, that is, to commit to a spirit of mutual respect, to hold the bottom line of peaceful coexistence, and to strive for the prospect of win-win cooperation. That’s what serves the interests of Chinese and American peoples, and that’s also the expectation of the international community.

This year is a “big year” for China-U.S. relations. The agenda of high-level exchanges is already on the table. China is always committed and open. It is critical that the U.S. side work in the same direction. When the two sides treat each other with sincerity and good faith, we will be able to lengthen the list of cooperation, and shorten the list of problems. The year of 2026 can be a landmark year of sound, steady and sustainable development of China-U.S. relations.

Mar. 7: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning post

Neither China or the United States can remodel the other, but we can choose how we want to engage.

Mar. 7: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi remarks to the press

At the press conference on March 8, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke of China-Russia relations. 

Wang Yi pointed out, this year marks the 30th anniversary of the China-Russia strategic partnership of coordination and the 25th anniversary of the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation. In a fluid and turbulent world, China-Russia relationship has stood rock-solid against all odds. How is that achieved? I think the main reason is that the China-Russia strategic partnership of coordination has been based on equality, respect and mutual benefit since day one. It represents the direction of a new type of major-country relations.

Wang Yi noted, China and Russia are strategically independent. We always respect each other’s core interests, do not impose the will or agenda of one on the other, and keep to the principle of non-alliance, non-confrontation and not targeting any third party.

China and Russia share a high degree of political mutual trust. Working back-to-back lies at the heart of this relationship. And the strong strategic resilience enables it to defy any external instigation or pressure.

China and Russia act in close coordination. In major international and regional affairs, China and Russia share the broadest strategic consensus and closest strategic coordination, including defending international rule and order you asked about.

Wang Yi said, the post-World War II international order has once again come to a crucial juncture. Last year, the heads of state of China and Russia attended the commemorations of the victory of the Anti-Fascist War in each other’s countries, and issued three important joint statements on deepening comprehensive strategic coordination, cementing global strategic stability and upholding the authority of international law. This has sent a clear message to the world about resolutely upholding the correct view of history on World War II, safeguarding the fruits of the victory of the War and opposing unilateral bullying acts. Eighty years ago, China and Russia together contributed to the building of the postwar order. Today, 80 years on, China and Russia together will add momentum to the advent of a multipolar world.

Mar. 7: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi remarks to the press

At the press conference on March 8, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi elaborated on China’s proposition on how the international landscape should evolve.

Wang Yi noted, there is no doubt that China and the United States have a significant impact on the world, but we should not forget there are more than 190 countries on our planet. World history has always been written by many countries together, and the future of humanity will be forged through the collective efforts of all nations. Diversity is the inherent nature of human society, and multipolarity is what the international landscape should look like.

Wang Yi said, looking back into history, great-power rivalry and bloc confrontation have invariably inflicted disaster and pain on humanity. Therefore, China will never take the beaten path of seeking hegemony as its strength grows, nor do we subscribe to the logic that the world can be run by major countries. China has inscribed in its Constitution that it follows an independent foreign policy and is committed to pursuing a path of peaceful development. Chinese leaders have often declared to the world that no matter how the international situation evolves and how strong China becomes, it will never seek hegemony or expansion.

Wang Yi pointed out, as for how the international landscape should evolve, China’s proposal is to build an equal and orderly multipolar world. “Equal” means every nation, regardless of size or strength, is an equal member of the international community, and can find its place and play its role in a multipolar world. “Orderly” means all countries should uphold the widely recognized international rules, namely the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter and the basic norms of international relations.

Wang Yi stressed that building an equal and orderly multipolar world should be the common responsibility of all countries. With more resources and capabilities, major countries should be more generous, shoulder more responsibilities, and set an example of observing rules, honoring commitments and upholding international law. China will continue to play a constructive role in reforming global governance, and work with all countries toward a multipolar world.

Mar. 7: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi remarks to the press

At the press conference on March 8, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi elaborated on China’s position on the situation in Iran.

Wang Yi noted, the situation in Iran is the focal point in the current international situation. China’s attitude on this issue is objective and impartial. We have stated our principled position on multiple occasions, which can be summarized into one key message, that is, to bring about ceasefire and end hostilities. Ancient Chinese wisdom warns that weapons are ominous tools, and should not be used without discretion. The Middle East is engulfed in flames. This is a war that should not have happened—it is a war that does no one any good. The history of the Middle East tells the world time and again that force provides no solution and armed conflict will only increase hatred and breed new crises. Once again, China calls for an immediate stop to military operations to avoid the spiraling escalation of the situation and prevent the conflict from spilling over and spreading.

Wang Yi pointed out, China is of the view that to find the right and proper solution to the issues relating to Iran and the Middle East, the following fundamental principles must be observed:

First, respecting national sovereignty. Sovereignty is the cornerstone of the current international order. We believe that the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Iran and all countries in the Gulf region should be respected and must not be violated.

Second, rejecting the abuse of force. Might does not make right. The law of the jungle must not return and rule the world. Willful use of force does not prove one’s strength. Civilians are innocent and should not be victimized.

Third, noninterference in internal affairs. The people in the Middle East are the true master of this region. Middle Eastern affairs should be determined by regional countries independently. Plotting color revolution or seeking regime change will find no popular support.

Fourth, promoting political settlement of hotspot issues. China always believes that peace is the most precious. All sides should return to the negotiating table as quickly as possible, resolve differences through equal dialogue, and make efforts for realizing common security.

Fifth, major countries should play a constructive role and use their strengths in goodwill. Another ancient Chinese adage reads, “When benevolence and justice are not practiced, the position of strength shifts.” Major countries should act in the spirit of justice and righteousness, and contribute more positive energy to peace and development of the Middle East.

Wang Yi stressed that as a sincere friend and strategic partner, China stands ready to work with Middle Eastern countries to implement the Global Security Initiative, and restore order to the Middle East, restore tranquility to the people, and restore peace to the world.

Mar. 7: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning post

FM Wang Yi: Regarding the situation in Iran, this is a war that should not have happened—it is a war that does no one any good.

The history of the Middle East tells the world time and again that force provides no solution and armed conflict will only increase hatred and breed new crises. Once again, China calls for an immediate stop to military operations to avoid the spiraling escalation of the situation and prevent the conflict from spilling over and spreading.

“Might does not make right. Civilians should not be victimized.”

Mar. 8: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov remarks

Q: May I ask you a global question? What kind of world are we living in now?

A: Pavel, you should probably take that to a political talk show.

We talk extensively about wanting to understand what kind of world we are living in now. This is why I have already addressed this topic several times.

Our understanding is that the United States of America must explicate its plans and how these plans correspond with the rules that essentially existed earlier.

A long time ago, even before the Covid-19 pandemic, President Putin suggested holding a summit of the permanent members of the UN Security Council. I believe it is high time we acted on this idea.

Mar. 8: Russian Foreign Ministry post

Russia’s FM Sergey #Lavrov:

President Vladimir #Putin proposed quite some time ago—even before the COVID-19 pandemic—convening a Summit of the permanent UN Security Council members.

It seems to me that now is high time to implement this idea.

Mar. 8: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Emirati Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed al-Nahyan

The ministers expressed deep concern over the situation regarding Iran and called for immediate steps to de-escalate military activity. They stressed the urgent need to halt attacks causing civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure, both in the Gulf Arab states and in Iran.

The ministers underlined the fundamental importance of returning to political and diplomatic efforts to reach agreements that would ensure reliable long-term security in the region. They agreed to remain in close contact and to work towards advancing shared positions at the United Nations and other international forums.

Mar. 8: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 8, FMs of Russia & the UAE spoke over the phone.

The Ministers expressed deep concern over the situation around Iran & spoke in favour of immediate steps to de-escalate the military confrontation.

Mar. 9: Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson post

China strongly condemns the attack against the @UNIFIL_. Our hearts go out to the injured Ghanaian peacekeepers. Any deliberate attack against UN peacekeeping personnel amounts to a grave violation of international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701. The attack is unacceptable and must stop at once.

China urges relevant parties to immediately take measures to deescalate the situation and ensure the safety of UN peacekeeping personnel.

Mar. 9: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: It’s reported the spokesperson for the UN Secretary General said Secretary General Antonio Guterres condemns the incident on March 6 which resulted in three Ghanaian peacekeepers of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) being injured. He underscores that the safety and security of UN personnel and property must be respected at all times, and that those responsible must be held accountable. The Ghanaian government said the attack constitutes a grave violation of international law and amounts to war crime, and called for a “full, immediate, impartial and transparent investigation.” What’s China comment? 

A: China strongly condemns the attack against the UN Interim Force in Lebanon. Our hearts go out to the injured. Any deliberate attack against UN peacekeeping personnel amounts to a grave violation of international humanitarian law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701. The attack is unacceptable and must stop at once. China urges relevant parties to immediately take measures to deescalate the situation and ensure the safety of UN peacekeeping personnel...

Q: The new leader in Iran was announced over the weekend. President Donald Trump has said that “he might not last long” and Israel vowed to target any of the new leaders in Iran. I wonder if you have any comment on this?

A: China opposes interference in other countries’ internal affairs under any pretext. Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity should be respected. China calls for an immediate end to the military operations, return to dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible, and no further escalation of tensions...

Q: Iran has named Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father as supreme leader. Does China have any comment on this selection?

A: We have noted relevant reports. It is a decision made by the Iranian side in accordance with the country’s Constitution.

Mar. 9: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif al-Zayani

Zayani briefed on the regional situation and Bahrain’s position. He noted that Bahrain had always been committed to peace and shall not be subjected to illegal attacks. Bahrain appreciates and thanks China for its just stance, and stands ready to work with other Gulf countries to step up communication and coordination with China on bilateral and multilateral platforms including the U.N., so as to achieve regional peace and stability as soon as possible. Bahrain will continue to take effective measures to safeguard the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions.

Wang Yi noted that the situation in the Gulf region has escalated sharply recently, and Bahrain’s security has also been undermined, which the Chinese side is deeply concerned about. China’s position is consistent and clear: the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected, and attacks on civilians and non-military targets should be condemned.

Wang Yi stressed that the top priority is to immediately cease military operations and prevent the conflict from further spreading. The way out of the impasse lies in an early return to dialogue and negotiation to strive for the restoration of peace. The fundamental solution is to jointly return to the right track of abiding by international law and the basic norms governing international relations. As a strategic partner of the Gulf countries and a responsible major country, China has been actively promoting peace and stopping wars. The special envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East issue is currently on a shuttle visit in the region and will also visit Bahrain. China will continue to play a constructive role in safeguarding peace and stability in the Gulf region, and hopes that Bahrain will continue to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in Bahrain.

Mar. 9: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Bahraini FM Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani.

The top priority is to immediately cease military operations to prevent the conflict from spreading further. The path to a breakthrough lies in returning to dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible to restore peace.

China has been actively promoting peace and ceasefire. The Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue is currently shuttling in the region.

Mar. 9: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Jarrah Jaber al-Ahmad al-Sabah

Sheikh Jarrah briefed Wang Yi on the latest developments of the regional situation, stating that Kuwait is not a party to the war but has still been impacted by the flames of war. Gulf countries including Kuwait remain committed to resolving disputes through dialogue while reserving their legitimate right to self-defense. The Kuwaiti side highly appreciates China’s position and the efforts China has made, and stands ready to strengthen communication and coordination with China to jointly promote the early restoration of security and stability in the region. Kuwait attaches great importance to and will continue to ensure the safety and security of Chinese personnel and institutions in the country.

Wang Yi stated that China has always advocated resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means. The ongoing hostilities are a war that should not have happened and  serves no one’s interests. The United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran while the Iran-US negotiations were still underway and without the authorization of the United Nations, which is a blatant violation of international law. At the same time, the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Gulf countries must also be fully respected, and any attack on innocent civilians and non-military targets deserves condemnation. The pressing priority now is to stop fighting, and end the war as soon as possible. China appreciates the consistent calls of Gulf countries for dialogue and negotiation. China will continue to make efforts for peace, and the special envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East issue has already left for the region to mediate and will strengthen communication and exchanges with the Kuwait and other countries. China hopes and believes that Kuwait will continue to ensure the safety and security of Chinese institutions and personnel in the country.

Mar. 9: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Kuwaiti FM Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.

The #US and #Israel launched military strikes against #Iran without authorization from the #UN, even while negotiations between Iran and the US were still ongoing, which constitutes a clear violation of international law.

Meanwhile, the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of Gulf countries should be fully respected, and any attack on innocent civilians and non-military targets should be condemned.

Mar. 9: Chinese Foreign Ministry statement

On March 8, 2026, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue met with Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi in Riyadh.

Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi said that the escalation of tensions in the Gulf region poses a serious threat to global security and stability, and serves no party’s interests. The GCC highly appreciates China’s active efforts to promote peace and end the fighting, and stands ready to strengthen communication and coordination with China to jointly promote the de-escalation of the situation.

Zhai Jun said that the current regional situation is highly complex and sensitive. The Chinese side urges all parties to immediately bring about a ceasefire and end the fighting and prevent further escalation of tensions, and to return to the track of negotiation at an early date. China appreciates the emphasis of the Extraordinary Meeting of the GCC Ministerial Council on dialogue and diplomacy as the only way to overcome the current crisis and maintain regional stability. The Chinese side will further play a constructive role and work with the GCC and Gulf countries to actively promote peace, end the fighting and de-escalate tensions.

Mar. 9: Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson repost

On March 8, 2026, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue met with Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi in Riyadh.

Zhai Jun said that the current regional situation is highly complex and sensitive. The Chinese side urges all parties to immediately bring about a ceasefire and end the fighting and prevent further escalation of tensions, and to return to the track of negotiation at an early date. China appreciates the emphasis of the Extraordinary Meeting of the GCC Ministerial Council on dialogue and diplomacy as the only way to overcome the current crisis and maintain regional stability. The Chinese side will further play a constructive role and work with the GCC and Gulf countries to actively promote peace, end the fighting and de-escalate tensions.

Mar. 9: Chinese Foreign Ministry statement

On March 8, 2026, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue visited Saudi Arabia and met with Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.

Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud said that the Middle East region is experiencing an unprecedented crisis, with the conflict spreading to Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia, seriously threatening regional stability and undermining global energy supply and shipping security. The Saudi side is fully aware of the danger of escalation and spillover of the conflict and has exercised maximum restraint. The Saudi side appreciates China’s consistent upholding of fairness and justice, and expresses the hope that China will continue to play a positive role in bringing about a ceasefire and ending the fighting, so as to prevent further deterioration of the regional situation.

Zhai Jun said that China is deeply concerned about the current tensions in the region. The Chinese side always believes that the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the basic norms of international relations must be upheld. The sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Gulf countries are inviolable, and any attacks on innocent civilians and non-military targets should be condemned. Promoting peace and ending the fighting is the fundamental way out of the current predicament. China urges all parties to immediately cease military actions, prevent further escalation of tensions, and avoid causing greater harm to the people of regional countries. As a major country upholding fairness and justice and a good friend and good partner of Saudi Arabia, China will continue to play a constructive role and stands ready to work with the Saudi side to actively engage with all parties and make unremitting efforts to safeguard peace and stability in the Gulf region.

Mar. 9: Russian President Vladimir Putin statement

Today, as Iran is opposing an armed aggression, your work in this high post will certainly require immense courage and selflessness. I am confident that you will continue your father’s work with honour and consolidate the Iranian people in the face of harsh ordeals.

On my part, I want to confirm our unwavering support of Tehran and our solidarity with our Iranian friends. Russia has been and will remain the Islamic Republic’s reliable partner.

I wish you success in tackling the challenges in front of you, good health and strong spirit.

Mar. 9: Russian Foreign Ministry post

President Vladimir Putin sent a congratulatory message to the newly elected Supreme Leader of Iran—Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei.

“I am confident that you will unite the Iranian people in the face of the severe trials ahead.”

Mar. 9: Russian President Vladimir Putin remarks on global oil and gas market

Good afternoon, colleagues.

I asked you to join me today for a meeting to discuss the situation in global energy markets and to compare notes. I would like to hear your views on the ongoing events and to consult with you on how we should coordinate the efforts of the state and private companies in connection with these developments. In this context, we will also discuss Russia’s further actions in global energy as a whole, including with a view of the escalation of the situation, as we understand it, in the Middle East.

Russia has repeatedly—I would like to note this right away—made it clear that attempts to destabilise the situation in the Middle East would inevitably put the global fuel and energy complex under threat, drive up oil and gas prices, restrict supplies of these resources worldwide and, of course, disrupt long-term investment plans. It appears that this is exactly what is happening.

Today, we see logistical problems on the hydrocarbons transportation routes used, and we see that this is having an extremely negative impact on global production chains, affecting industry and, essentially—without exaggeration—the entire international economic relations system, because disruptions in supplies are followed by other purely economic problems: inflation rises, and production suffers not only in the oil and gas sector but also in the manufacturing of industrial goods.

Let me remind you that last year around a third of the world’s seaborne oil exports—about 14 million barrels per day—went through the Strait of Hormuz. Of these, about 80 percent went to the countries of the Asia-Pacific region. At present this route is effectively closed. Oil production tied to the use of the strait risks coming to a complete halt within the next month. It has already begun to decline, while storage facilities in the region are filling up with oil that cannot be exported, or is extremely difficult or very expensive to export.

Clearly, a complete redirection of Middle Eastern oil supplies without using the Strait of Hormuz is—at least for the time being—unrealistic. Changing logistics would not only take a long time but would also require significant spending on infrastructure, expansion of maritime terminals, and so on. And, of course, it would be associated with high political risks that are still here.

Yet consumers need oil today. As a result, global oil prices are rising, and we can see clearly that they have increased by more than 30 percent over the past week alone. I checked today at about 5:30 am Moscow time and, I think, they had already gone through US$119 per barrel. Then they retraced to US$107, US$106, and now, I think—Mr Sechin told me so—oil was trading at around US$103. But price fluctuations continue, and the trend is upward, not downward.

A similar situation is emerging on the global gas market. Supplies of liquefied natural gas from the Middle East have plummeted. Production capacities have decreased in the region, which will take weeks or even months to recover. The missing volumes are impossible to quickly compensate. As a result, global gas prices are also rising, I think, even faster than oil prices.

I would like to emphasise the following in this regard. In the current conditions, competition between buyers for energy suppliers and for stable and predictable oil and gas supplies is intensifying.

In this regard, of course, I cannot but say and remind not only my colleagues here in this room, but also all our consumers in general, that it has been stability that Russian energy companies have always distinguished themselves by.

Obviously, the global logistics of the fuel and energy complex in the context of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East will be changing towards more profitable and more promising markets. At the same time, we must be aware that the current high commodity prices are definitely temporary. You and I understand this, it is obvious, we have to proceed from this, which is why I asked you to convene so as to consult with you on how we should coordinate our efforts for the near future.

A change in the balance of supply and demand of hydrocarbons will certainly lead to a new stable price reality. This will inevitably happen, therefore it is important for Russian energy companies to use the current moment, including for directing additional export revenue to reduce their debt to domestic banks. Colleagues, I would like to draw your attention to this. I ask the Government and the Central Bank to take this process under control.

I would like to stress once again that Russia is a reliable supplier of energy resources. It has always been like this. We will certainly continue to supply oil and gas to those countries that are reliable counterparties themselves. I am referring not only to our partners in the Asia-Pacific region, but also in Eastern European countries such as Slovakia and Hungary. Even now, some colleagues have already informed me before the meeting in such an expanded format that we are increasing supplies to our reliable partners in several regions of the world at once.

At the same time, I would like to remind you that the EU countries plan to introduce additional restrictions on the purchase of Russian hydrocarbons, including liquefied natural gas, effective April 25, up to a complete ban on such supplies in 2027. In this regard, the Government has already been tasked with assessing the possibility and expediency of stopping the supply of our energy resources to the European market without waiting for the door to be defiantly slammed in our face, but doing it now and diverting these volumes from the European market to more promising areas, and gaining a foothold there, which is most important.

The current situation is such that if we immediately refocus on those markets that need increased supplies, we can gain a foothold there now. That is, where there is steady long-term demand and reliable long-term relationships, to those states that are building constructive business relations with Russia.

By the way, I asked you to come so as to ask your advice on all these issues: if European companies, European buyers suddenly decide to reorient themselves and provide us with long-term, sustainable cooperation devoid of political considerations, free from political considerations—we can accommodate them, we have never turned them down, and we are ready to work with the Europeans. But we need some kind of signals from them that they are ready and willing to work with us too and will provide us with this sustainability and stability.

The Government also keeps these issues under control. I hope we will have a substantive conversation with you on all these issues.

Mar. 9: Russian President Vladimir Putin phone call with President Trump

Donald Trump telephoned Vladimir Putin to discuss a number of highly important issues related to the current international situation. Naturally, particular attention was given to the situation surrounding the conflict with Iran, as well as to the ongoing trilateral negotiations on the Ukrainian settlement involving representatives of the United States.

I would note at the outset that the conversation was businesslike, frank and constructive, as is typically the case in dialogue between the Russian and American leaders. They had not spoken by telephone for quite some time; their previous conversation took place at the end of December 2025. Today’s call, incidentally, lasted about an hour. The US President noted that, as previously agreed, such contacts should take place on a regular basis, and both leaders confirmed that they are ready for this.

The President of Russia set out a number of considerations aimed at achieving a prompt political and diplomatic settlement of the Iranian conflict, including in light of the contacts he has recently held with leaders of the Gulf states, with President of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian and with the leaders of several other countries.

For his part, the US President shared his assessment of developments in the context of the ongoing US-Israeli operation. I would note that a very substantive—and, I believe, useful—exchange of views took place on this matter.

President Trump once again expressed interest in bringing the conflict in Ukraine to an end as soon as possible by achieving a ceasefire that would open the way to a long-term settlement.

On our side, a positive assessment was given of the mediation efforts undertaken by Donald Trump’s team and by him personally.

An assessment was also provided of the current situation along the line of contact, where Russian forces are advancing successfully. As was noted, this is a factor that should compel the Kiev regime to finally move towards a negotiated settlement of the conflict.

The leaders also touched upon the issue of Venezuela, primarily in the context of the situation on the global oil market.

Overall, I would reiterate that the conversation was highly substantive and will undoubtedly have practical significance for further cooperation between the two countries across various areas of international policy.

Mar. 10: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 9, Presidents of Russia & the US spoke over the phone.

The Leaders focused the conversation on the conflict around Iran, the trilateral negotiations on the Ukrainian settlement, as well as the situation in Venezuela.

Mar. 10: Russian Foreign Ministry post

President #Putin:

Russia has repeatedly warned that attempts to destabilize the situation in the Middle East would inevitably put the global fuel & energy sector under pressure.

This is precisely what we are witnessing today.

Mar. 10: Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson repost

Chinese citizens evacuated from Iran: We finally felt relieved and safe, thanks to the Chinese embassies and consulates.

Mar. 10: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: We noted that the Foreign Ministry recently released flight information for Chinese passengers stranded in Middle East countries and suggested their prompt return to China. Could you update us about the latest progress?

A: For days running, the Foreign Ministry has been working closely with the Civil Aviation Administration to boost the flight capacity of domestic airlines to bring back Chinese passengers stranded in the Middle East. China’s diplomatic and consular missions in the region have reached out to their host countries to obtain facilitation for Chinese carriers and have provided timely updates on security alerts and flight information, while looking after the stranded passengers. Through concerted efforts, over 10,000 Chinese passengers have safely returned to China from countries including the UAE, Oman and Saudi Arabia. As the fighting continues, some airports in the Middle East have yet to fully resume operation. The Foreign Ministry once again urges Chinese nationals not to travel to Iran’s neighboring countries and regions impacted by the military conflict. Our embassies and consulates in the region will do everything possible to provide necessary assistance to Chinese nationals in need...

Q: Amid the ongoing tense situation in the Middle East, there are concerns in the market that the conflict may protract and destabilize energy production and export passage in the Gulf region. China’s reliance on energy imports from the Middle East also triggers concerns on China’s energy supply security. Some believe that geopolitical rivalry is destabilizing global energy landscape and industrial chains. What’s China’s take on the impact of current geopolitical conflicts on global energy security? In the face of rising external uncertainties, how will China pursue both development and security and ensure both national energy security and long-term development interests?

A: We are deeply concerned over the continued tensions in the Middle East. Parties need to stop the military operations at once, avoid further escalation, and prevent the regional turmoil from having a greater impact on global economic growth. Energy security is of vital importance to the world economy. All parties have the responsibility to ensure stable and unimpeded energy supply. China will do what is necessary to protect its energy security. For anything specific, I’d refer you to competent authorities...

Q: Foreign Minister Wang Yi, when talking about the recent conflict in the Middle East during the NPC press conference on the weekend, said this conflict should not have happened in the first place. In phone conversations with counterparts from Kuwait and Bahrain yesterday, Minister Wang said that sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Gulf countries should be respected as well as Iran. In this situation, what do you think the next step should be? How can this conflict be stopped? Will China, for example, consider a direct appeal to the U.S., the party that initiated the conflict, and tell them to stop the war and return to negotiation?

A: China is gravely concerned over the ongoing tense situation in the Middle East. Over the past few days, China has carried out intensive mediation efforts. Foreign Minister Wang Yi had phone calls with his counterparts of multiple countries for in-depth exchange of views on the situation in the region. During his press conference at the two sessions, Foreign Minister Wang Yi stressed that to find the right and proper solution to the issues relating to Iran and the Middle East, we need to respect national sovereignty, reject the abuse of force, uphold noninterference in internal affairs, and promote political settlement of hotspot issues, and major countries should play a constructive role and use their strengths in goodwill. These fundamental principles must be observed. As we speak, Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue Zhai Jun is in the Middle East to carry out shuttle diplomacy. To prolong or escalate the conflict does not serve any party’s interest. China will continue to maintain communication with relevant parties, including parties to the conflict, step up mediation, build consensus, and work for the deescalation of the situation...

Q: Given the ongoing Iranian attacks on Saudi Arabia, which have targeted civilian infrastructure and oil facilities, how might these developments impact the Beijing agreement between Saudi and Iran? Could you please give us an update about the visit of the Chinese special envoy to the Middle East?

A: On your first question, the reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran was truly remarkable. It is the shared strategic asset of all countries in the region, and needs to be doubly cherished. On your second question, Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue Zhai Jun is on a visit to the Middle East. Readouts about his visit to Saudi Arabia have been released on the MFA website, and we will continue to share information about the visit in a timely manner. You may check back for updates...

Q: You have mentioned Zhai Jun’s visit to Middle Eastern countries as a diplomatic mission to mediate between regional countries for the solution of this crisis. Can you explain the scope of this mission? Will it be a mediation between just Iran and Gulf countries? Or will it also involve the U.S. and Israel? Which countries will he visit after Saudi Arabia? Can you share his itinerary? And lastly, is there a possibility of an arrangement for the safe passage of oil exports from the Strait of Hormuz? In the context of this visit, is energy security in the Strait of Hormuz an item in the Ambassador’s agenda?

A: As I just mentioned, the Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue Zhai Jun is visiting the region to play a mediation role. Our focus is to help bring about an immediate stop to the military conflict and to bring parties concerned back to the negotiation table. We will release more information about the visit. Please stay tuned. Regarding issues related to the Strait of Hormuz, the Strait of Hormuz and waters nearby are an important route for international goods and energy trade. Keeping the region safe and stable serves the common interests of the international community. China urges parties to stop the military operations at once, avoid further escalation, and prevent the regional turmoil from having a larger impact on global economic growth.

Mar. 10: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with Qatari Prime Minister Muhammad bin Abdulrahman al-Thani

On March 10, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with [Sheikh Muhammad] upon request.

[Sheikh Muhammad] briefed Wang Yi on the regional situation and Qatar’s position. He emphasized that Qatar has to undertake necessary self-defense measures, while intensifying diplomatic efforts to contain the spread and escalation of the crisis. Qatar appreciates China’s upholding of an impartial stance and its mediation efforts, and hopes that China will play a greater role in bringing about a ceasefire and ending hostilities.

Wang Yi stated that as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, China has always upheld principles and stood for fairness and justice in international affairs. The use of force by the United States and Israel against Iran without Security Council authorization is a clear violation of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the basic norms governing international relations. At the same time, China does not approve of the expansion of the strike scope, and condemn the indiscriminate attacks on civilians and non-military targets. The sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the Gulf Arab countries should be respected. The continuation of the war brings nothing but harm, and will only cause greater losses to all parties involved. The Chinese side calls for an immediate ceasefire and cessation of hostilities, and a political settlement of the issue, and supports the Gulf countries in taking the future of the region into their own hands. The Chinese side will continue to play a constructive role in easing the situation and restoring peace in its own way.

Mar. 10: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with Pakistani Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar

On March 10, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with [Dar] at the latter’s request.

[Dar] briefed Wang Yi on Pakistan’s position regarding the situation in Iran, urging all parties to exercise restraint and resolve the current crisis through peaceful negotiations. Pakistan appreciates China’s efforts to de-escalate the situation and stands ready to enhance coordination and cooperation with China on platforms such as the United Nations to jointly explore effective ways to achieve peace.

Wang Yi said that as all-weather strategic cooperative partners, China and Pakistan share a fine tradition of communication and coordination on major international and regional issues. Both countries have promptly expressed their firm stance on the situation in Iran, demonstrating a responsible attitude and commitment to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. The outbreak of this war lacks justification and legitimacy, and its continuation will only result in more unnecessary casualties. The key to preventing further escalation lies in the United States and Israel ceasing military operations. At the same time, China does not approve of attacks on Gulf countries and condemns all attacks on civil facilities and innocent civilians. The Chinese side appreciates Pakistan’s mediation efforts to de-escalate regional tensions and stands ready to maintain multilateral and bilateral coordination and cooperation with Pakistan, support Pakistan in continuing to play a constructive role, and jointly work toward the early restoration of peace and stability in the region.

The two sides also exchanged views on the border conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Wang Yi said that the special envoy on Afghan Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China is currently shuttling between Afghanistan and Pakistan to promote peace talks. The pressing priority is to prevent the escalation of the conflict and return to the negotiating table at an early date. The Chinese side firmly supports Pakistan in its counterterrorism efforts and hopes that Pakistan will continue to make the utmost efforts to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions in Pakistan. Mohammad Ishaq Dar expressed appreciation for China’s mediation efforts and stressed that Pakistan attaches great importance to and will make every effort to ensure the safety of Chinese institutions and personnel.

Mar. 10: Russian President Vladimir Putin phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian

Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian to continue their discussion of the situation in the Middle East in light of the United States and Israel’s armed aggression against Iran.

The President of Russia has reaffirmed his principled stance in favour of de-escalating the conflict as soon as possible and resolving it via political means. Masoud Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for the support provided by Russia, including in particular the humanitarian aid granted to Iran.

Mar. 10: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 10, Presidents of Russia & Iran continued their discussion over the phone.

Vladimir Putin reaffirmed Russia’s principled position in favour of the earliest possible de-escalation of the conflict & its settlement through political means.

Mar. 10: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

The ministers continued to exchange opinions regarding the current situation in the Middle East that has deteriorated drastically due to the unprovoked US-Israeli aggression against Iran. Sergey Lavrov once again set forth the Russian side’s principled position in favour of deescalating the conflict as soon as possible and resuming the process of a political and diplomatic peace settlement. The Russian side is invariably ready to facilitate this process, with due consideration for security interests of Iran and its regional neighbours.

Mar. 10: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 10, FMs Sergey #Lavrov & @araghchi spoke over the phone.

The Ministers continued to exchange views on the situation in the Middle East, which has sharply deteriorated following the unprovoked aggression by the US & Israel against Iran.

Mar. 10: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan

The ministers discussed the unprecedented escalation of tensions in the Middle East, resulting from the unprovoked US-Israeli aggression against Iran.

Both sides emphasised the importance of an immediate cessation of all hostilities and called for restraint in the use of force to settle the conflict. They noted that the conflict has led to civilian casualties and is seriously damaging civilian infrastructure both in the Islamic Republic of Iran and in the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf, which have nothing to do with the illegal actions of the United States and Israel and should not be subjected to strikes.

The ministers highlighted the need for consolidating the efforts of the international community to de-escalate military-political tensions as soon as possible and prevent any further deterioration of the situation in the Middle East.

Mar. 10: Russian Foreign Ministry statement  

The conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate, directly or indirectly affecting the interests of an increasing number of states and their civilian populations. This is evident, in particular, in the fact that foreign diplomatic missions and consular offices located in the region are also coming under attack. Their number is growing.

On March 8, the Russian Consulate General in Isfahan, Iran, sustained damage as a result of an attack on the nearby office of the Governor of Isfahan Province. Windows were blown out in the consulate’s office building and residential quarters, and several staff members were knocked down by the blast wave. Fortunately, there were no fatalities or serious injuries.

We regard attacks on diplomatic and consular missions as a flagrant violation of such fundamental instruments of international law as the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the 1963 Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. We demand that all parties strictly respect the inviolability of diplomatic premises and refrain from any actions that threaten the safety, life and health of their personnel.

We call on the parties to the conflict to put an immediate end to the military confrontation and return to the negotiating table.

Mar. 11: Russian President Vladimir Putin phone call with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev

During the phone call, Vladimir Putin thanked Ilham Aliyev for the efficient assistance in organising the evacuation of Russian nationals from Iran and in ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Iranian people from Russia via Azerbaijani territory.

While exchanging views on the current situation in the Middle East, both leaders spoke in favour of ceasing hostilities as soon as possible and resolving the active conflict through political and diplomatic means.

Some current aspects of the bilateral agenda were discussed as well. Both sides reaffirmed their mutual commitment to further developing Russia-Azerbaijan cooperation in various sectors based on the principles of strategic partnership and allied relationship.

Mar. 11: Russian President Vladimir Putin phone call with Emirati President Muhammad bin Zayed

Vladimir Putin gave his warm regards to Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on his 65th birthday, wishing him good health, prosperity, and further success, and noting his significant personal contribution to strengthening the strategic partnership between Russia and the UAE. Both sides acknowledged with satisfaction that the friendly Russian-UAE relations are developing rapidly in all areas.

The leaders continued their exchange of views on the dangerously deteriorating situation in the Middle East that is having grave consequences for Iran as well as the Arab countries. The President of Russia emphasised the need to stop the conflict from escalating further and to resolve it via talks.

Vladimir Putin expressed special gratitude to the President of the UAE for the assistance and support extended to the numerous Russian citizens in the UAE.

Mar. 11: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty

On March 11, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a telephone conversation with Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Badr Abdelatty, at the initiative of the Egyptian side.

The ministers expressed profound concern over the increasingly perilous situation in the Middle East, which has sharply deteriorated due to the unprovoked aggression by the United States and Israel against Iran. They called for the immediate cessation of the conflict, which is causing civilian casualties and inflicting damage on civilian infrastructure.

The heads of the foreign ministries of Russia and Egypt underscored the urgent need to resume political and diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting stability and security in the region. They agreed to maintain consultations and diplomatic coordination within the United Nations, as well as at other international platforms.

The discussion also encompassed the further development of Russia-Egypt cooperation, including the schedule of upcoming bilateral engagements.

Mar. 11: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Indian Minister of External RelationsSubrahmanyam Jaishankar

The ministers exchanged views on the developments surrounding Iran and called for its swift normalisation. They reiterated their support for the contribution of the SCO and BRICS to efforts aimed at de-escalating the situation and creating favourable conditions for achieving a sustained peace settlement based on a balance of the legitimate interests of all parties.

In addition, the ministers discussed a number of bilateral matters, including the timeframe for upcoming political contacts.

Mar. 11: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad al-Busaidi

The ministers conducted a substantive exchange of views on the situation surrounding Iran with an emphasis on finding ways to bring about the swiftest possible end to the military confrontation caused by the United States and Israel’s unprovoked aggression. They reiterated their position in favour of preventing escalation and immediately returning to a political and diplomatic settlement. The parties specifically emphasised the unacceptability of involving third countries, first and foremost the Gulf States, in the conflict which is fraught with the risk of wider military operations.

Sergey Lavrov highlighted Russia’s willingness to assist in identifying compromise-based peaceful solutions founded on respect for the principle of sovereignty and equality of all states, as well as other foundational norms of international law.

Mar. 11: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid al-Zayani 

On March 11, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a telephone conversation with [Zayani] at the initiative of the Bahraini side.

The conversation focused on the developments in the Persian Gulf area in the context of the large-scale armed conflict resulting from the unprovoked US-Israeli aggression against Iran.

The foreign ministers emphasised the need for an immediate cessation of all hostilities and called for the launch of a negotiating process aimed at finding reasonable compromise solutions. Both sides highlighted the unacceptability of attacks leading to civilian casualties and the destruction of critical civilian infrastructure both in Iran and in neighbouring Arab countries, which are not involved in the conflict.

Sergey Lavrov reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to use every available opportunity to actively promote stabilisation in the region.

Mar. 11: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Pakistani Deputy PM & FM Mohammad Ishaq Dar.

On the situation in #Iran, Wang noted that the key to preventing further escalation lies in the #US and #Israel halting their military operations. China does not condone attacks on Gulf states, and condemns all attacks on civilian facilities and innocent civilians.

On the recent border clashes between #Pakistan and #Afghanistan, Wang noted that China’s Special Envoy on Afghan Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is shuttling between the two countries to promote dialogue and reconciliation. The urgent task is to prevent further escalation and return to negotiations as soon as possible.

Mar. 11: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Qatari PM & FM Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.

The #US-#Israeli use of force against #Iran, without authorization from the UN Security Council, clearly violated the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the basic norms governing international relations. Meanwhile, China does not approve of expanding the scope of strikes and condemns indiscriminate attacks against civilians and non-military targets.

China calls for an immediate ceasefire and an end to hostilities, urges the pursuit of a political settlement, and supports the Gulf countries in taking the future of the region into their own hands.

Mar. 11: Chinese Foreign Ministry statement

On March 10, 2026, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Abdullah briefed on the current regional situation and the UAE’s position, stating that the UAE is not a party to the conflict and has consistently committed to maintaining regional peace and stability, and therefore should not be targeted. The UAE appreciates China’s impartial stance, highly values China’s important role, welcomes the mediation efforts of China’s special envoy across the region, and is willing to work with China to promote a de-escalation of the regional situation. The UAE attaches great importance to and will fully ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions in the UAE. 

Zhai Jun stated that China is deeply concerned about the ongoing spread of conflict across the entire Gulf region. China has always believed that the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of all countries in the Gulf region should be respected, and any attacks on civilians or non-military targets should be condemned. Conflict and instability in the region serve no one’s interests, and achieving a ceasefire is the fundamental way out of the current crisis. After the conflict broke out, the UAE responded calmly and responsibly with restraint, which China appreciates. China is willing to enhance communication and coordination with the UAE, work together to engage relevant parties, and promote an early ceasefire. China hopes the UAE will continue to fully ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions in the UAE.

During his visit, Special Envoy Zhai Jun also met with Special Envoy of UAE President to China Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, and exchanged in-depth views on further promoting the development of bilateral relations.

Mar. 11: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue met separately with Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Saudi FM Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, and UAE Deputy PM & FM Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

#China is deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict spreading across the entire Gulf region. War and turmoil in the region serve no one’s interests, and a ceasefire and cessation of hostilities are the fundamental way out of the current predicament.

Mar. 11: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: We noted that over the past two days, Foreign Minister Wang Yi had phone calls with his counterparts from Kuwait, Bahrain, Pakistan and Qatar for exchanges of views on the situation in Iran. But meanwhile, tensions in the region ratchet up, and risks of conflict escalation and spillover grow. Could you give us more information on China’s position and efforts to promote deescalation? How does China view the future development?

A: On the situation in Iran, Foreign Minister Wang Yi has recently reached out to relevant parties and once again communicated with his counterparts of regional countries through phone calls to call for peace, end to hostilities and deescalation. 

Foreign Minister Wang Yi pointed out that this is a war that should not have happened—it is a war that does no one any good. Without the UN’s authorization, the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran in the process of the ongoing U.S.-Iran negotiation, which clearly violates international law. Countries’ sovereignty, security and territorial integrity should be respected. China does not go along with attacks against countries in the Gulf region and condemns nondiscriminatory attacks against civilians or non-military targets. The pressing priority now is to stop military operations at once and prevent the conflict from spreading. The way out of the conflict is to return to dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible and strive for restoration of peace. The fundamental solution is to jointly return to the right track of abiding by international law and basic norms of international relations.

Since the very first day of the conflict, China has unequivocally called for ceasefire, end of hostilities, return to dialogue and negotiation, and political settlement. As we speak, Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue is in the Middle East to carry out shuttle diplomacy. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council and sincere friend of Middle Eastern countries, China will stay committed to urging peace and defending justice and fairness. China will continue to strengthen communication with relevant parties, including parties to the conflict, and play a constructive role for deescalation and restoration of peace...

Q: The U.S. said that it struck what it says Iranian boats being used to lay mines in the Strait of Hormuz. I wondered if you have any comment on the potential mining of the Strait? Has China had any talks with Iran or others on keeping the Strait open?

A: We are gravely concerned over the ongoing tense situation in the Middle East. The pressing priority now is that relevant parties should stop the military operations at once, return to the track of dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible, and avoid further escalation and deterioration of the situation...

Q: The Pentagon is moving parts of its THAAD air defense system from South Korea to the Middle East. Does China have a comment on this? Will China oppose the U.S. returning those weapons to South Korea in the future?

A: We noted relevant reports. China’s opposition to the U.S. deployment of THAAD anti-missile system in the ROK remains unchanged...

Q: I have a question regarding the shuttle diplomacy. Is this particular diplomacy focused in the Gulf region? Or is it being extended to Israel and the U.S. as well to bring about a kind of ceasefire to halt the war, at least at present? Is the Chinese government also in touch with the U.S. on these particular diplomatic efforts?

A: I just shared China’s mediation efforts in answering an earlier question. You may also have noted a recent phone call between Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Israeli counterpart. As we speak, Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue is visiting the region, as part of China’s efforts to help bring about an immediate stop to the military conflict and to bring parties concerned back to the track of dialogue and negotiation to avoid further escalation of the situation. China will continue to maintain communication with all relevant parties, including parties to the conflict.

Mar. 11: Chinese Ambassador Fu Cong remarks on UN Security Council resolution

President,

The draft resolution proposed by Russia reaffirms the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. It urges all parties to immediately stop military activities, condemns all attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, and encourages all parties concerned to return to the track of diplomatic negotiations. Its content is principled and balanced, which China welcomes and supports. We are disappointed and regret that the draft was not adopted.

This is a war that should not have happened—it is a war that does no one any good. The history of the Middle East tells the world time and again that force provides no solution and armed conflicts will only increase hatred and breed new crises. The pressing priority is to immediately stop military operations, prevent the escalation and spread of hostilities, and return to dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible. China will continue its efforts to strive for peace. 

I thank you, President.

Mar. 11: Russian Permanent Representative Vassily Nebenzia remarks on UN Security Council resolution

Remarks before the vote: 

Mr. President,

We have already pointed out today the non-constructive nature of the resolution that has been just adopted, which condemned Iran’s strikes targeting the territory of the countries in the region. This resolution is one-sided, and no additional explanations by the representative of Bahrain convinced us otherwise.

Right now, the Russian Federation is calling upon the UNSC members to pass an impartial document aimed at urgent de-escalation of the situation. This will enable the Council to discharge its direct responsibilities for maintaining international peace and security. 

The draft tabled by our country leaves aside the differences among Council members regarding the causes of the current unprecedented tensions in the Middle East. It is simple, straightforward, and unambiguous, and has four operative paragraphs. The first one urges all parties to immediately stop their military activities and refrain from any steps that could lead to further escalation in the Middle East and beyond. The second one firmly condemns all attacks against civilians and civilian infrustructure, underscoring the obligations of all parties under international law, including international humanitarian law. The third one underlines the importance of ensuring security of all States in the region without exception. The fourth one strongly encourages all parties concerned to return to the negotiating table without any further delay. 

We are convinced that all of the aforementioned elements fully reflect the views of Security Council members regarding current events, including those expressed during the Council meeting on February 28. At the same time, when preparing the draft, we intentionally did not name any of the parties. We are well aware that had we done otherwise, it would have been impossible to reach consensus and, as a result, it would have impeded the Council in promptly sending a fundamentally important message about the need for immediate de-escalation and restraint on the part of all conflicting parties.

When working on the draft, the Russian Federation circulated a document to gather written comments from Council members and conducted in person informal consultations. We note that not a single delegation expressed any objections or concerns regarding the language.

In this context, we count on all our colleagues to demonstrate responsibility and support the Russian proposal, which could become a timely and much-needed step towards a political and diplomatic settlement of the situation in the Middle East.

Thank you.

Remarks after the vote: 

Mr. President,

We are deeply disappointed by the fact that the Security Council has failed today to pass such a much-needed resolution that stresses the need to de-escalate the situation in the Middle East and return to searching for negotiated solutions.

We would like to express our gratitude to those colleagues who spoke in favor of the adoption of the document tabled by Russia. We believe that they acted responsibly and in a principled manner, as befits members of the Security Council. 

Alas, some colleagues did not manage to summon the strength and wisdom to make the only correct decision. And some of them did so deliberately. After all, the main thing for them is to “march in step” with their big brother, following all his commands. They have just rejected the possibility for the Council to send an unequivocal demand to immediately stop hostilities and settle any disputes by peaceful means. This once again shows, very clearly, that all the loud statements on the part of these countries about how committed they are to international law, the UN Charter, and peace are nothing more than hollow rhetoric. Their position is dictated purely by their parochial political interests and bloc solidarity, as well as by the fear of falling out of favor with their seniors. Moreover, it is precisely for these reasons that they have no qualms about further undermining the authority of the Security Council. 

It is quite telling that none of the delegations that spoke against or abstained in the voting were able to explain what exactly they found objectionable in the text we had drafted. Their routine declarations about, for instance, the need to focus on the resolution put forward by Bahrain and the GCC countries hold no water. In no way did the Russian draft contradict the document sponsored by the countries of the region, nor did it contain any elements that were mutually exclusive in relation to it. Therefore, such words are nothing but a clumsy attempt to justify their fear to speak in support of the initiative, however balanced and depoliticized it may be. They acted like this only because this initiative does not benefit those who are truly responsible for the bloody events in the Middle East. And everything can be even more dangerous if they hide other geopolitical goals behind their decision. It is they who will bear all the responsibility for any negative consequences on the ground that may result from the bad faith and recklessness of some members of the Council.

This vote was a litmus test and, forgive me, an invitation to show one’s true colors. We are curious: do those countries which did not support the resolution really fail to comprehend how pathetic they look? We have already mentioned that this is not even “double standards.” It is surreal, it is a mirror world, theater of the absurd, and, quite simply, a disgrace. From now on, we will constantly remind you of this when, in other situations, you will try to portray yourselves as champions of international law. 

Regardless of the outcome of the voting today, Russia will continue to make every effort to swiftly end the confrontation in the Middle East and to resolve any differences by peaceful means. We will provide every assistance to the countries in the region and other parties to the conflict. And we expect a similar approach on the part of reasonable and constructively minded member States.

Mar. 12: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: At least 16 ships and fuel oil tankers have been attacked by Iran since the fighting in the region began. Have any China-flagged civilian and commercial vessels at or near the Strait of Hormuz been hit by drones and projectiles? How many China-flagged vessels are there at the moment?

A: The Strait of Hormuz and waters nearby are an important route for international goods and energy trade. Keeping the region safe and stable serves the common interests of the international community. China urges parties to stop the military operations at once, avoid further escalation, and prevent the regional turmoil from having a larger impact on global economic growth...

Q: An Iranian military adviser says that some countries are sharing intel on U.S. military moves. He didn’t name those countries. Is China giving Iran information about the U.S. military? Can you provide any more information about this?

A: I am not aware of what you mentioned. China’s position is consistent and clear. We urge parties to stop the military operations at once and avoid further escalation. 

Mar. 12: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty

Badr Abdelatty briefed Wang Yi on the regional situation and Egypt’s position, expressing deep concern over the ongoing hostilities. Following the recent resolution adopted by the UN Security Council, Egypt urges all parties to exercise restraint and avoid further regional turbulence. Egypt highly appreciates China’s balanced and just position and the important role it has played, and stands ready to maintain close communication with China to promote de-escalation at an early date.

Wang Yi reiterated China’s principled position, saying that China and Egypt, as responsible countries, both advocate resolving regional issues through dialogue and consultation, and both oppose the arbitrary use of force. The continuation of the conflict in the Middle East will only bring more suffering to the local people, have a devastating impact on the regional economy, and further undermine international and regional security and stability. It is the universal consensus of the international community to immediately bring about a ceasefire and end the fighting, and all parties should urge the parties concerned to press the pause button on military actions at an early date, so as to prevent further deterioration. The Chinese side stands ready to maintain communication and coordination with regional countries, including Egypt, and continue to play a constructive role in pursuing peace.

Mar. 12: Russian Foreign Ministry remarks

Let us now move to the situation in the Persian Gulf area, which tops the international agenda.

We have received a large number of questions, and I would like to comment on the UN Security Council session on this matter which was held on March 11. As you are aware, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2817 prepared by Bahrain, which condemns strikes on the territories of the Arab Gulf States and calls on Iran to immediately stop such actions. As you saw, Russia and China abstained, as they disagree with the concept of the document, which is presented in isolation from the underlying cause of the ongoing escalation in the region. One can get an impression that Iran allegedly attacked sites in neighbouring countries entirely of its own accord and out of malicious intent.

Moscow has repeatedly made it clear that the current crisis in the Middle East is rooted in the unprovoked aggression by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran. We express our extreme dissatisfaction with the process of agreeing upon the above resolution. Its Bahraini sponsors turned down every Russian or Chinese proposal seeking to “redress” their unbalanced text.

With the support of its Chinese partners, Russia proposed that the Security Council consider a draft alternative document aimed at starting urgent de-escalation and condemning strikes against any civilian targets without assigning blame. It would appear that such an impartial UN Security Council resolution should have been supported by all its responsible members; however, only China, Pakistan, and Somalia voted in favour of our initiative. The United States and Latvia voted against it. Other countries abstained, although they had not come up with any objections to the Russian text during consultations. Does this mean they are not interested in ending the current confrontation in the Middle East?

Regardless of the outcomes of the UN Security Council vote on March 11, we believe it is important to reaffirm the right of the Islamic Republic of Iran—as well as all, I emphasise, other states—to self-defence in accordance with Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations. We consider strikes targeting civilian sites and infrastructure in Iran, neighbouring Arab countries, or anywhere else for that matter to be unacceptable. We call on the United States and Israel to halt the aggression and return to the negotiating table. It is critically important for all participants in the current confrontation in the Middle East, including our Arab partners, to demonstrate common sense and restraint, say no to double standards, and return to the efforts aimed at early cessation of the confrontation based on the principles of neighbourliness.

Russia will continue to take steps aimed at the earliest possible de-escalation in the Middle East and the settlement of all existing disagreements by peaceful means. We intend to continue promoting Russia’s Concept of Collective and Indivisible Security for the Gulf Region, which would ensure that the interests of all countries in the region are respected.

We assess the humanitarian situation in the Middle East as, to put it mildly, extremely challenging. According to the authorities, the number of civilian victims in Iran as a result of Washington and Tel Aviv’s unlawful use of force runs into the thousands. Despite awkward attempts to hush it up and the unconvincing justifications of the aggressors, the international community is becoming increasingly aware of what is happening. More and more officially confirmed information is being provided to those monitoring the situation about the barbaric bombardment of a girls’ primary school in Minab and the Payame Noor University in Tehran, as well as other sites, including those connected with our country, which I will cover later.

Civilian infrastructure is being destroyed, and foreign diplomatic and consular buildings in Iran are also getting damaged. We reported earlier that a missile strike on an administrative building in Isfahan damaged nearby premises of the Russian Consulate General. In the same city, known for its architectural masterpieces, unique UNESCO World Heritage sites located in its busiest central district have been damaged as well. Historical monuments in the Iranian capital have likewise come under bombing. The indiscriminate nature of these strikes is stunning. We expect competent international organisations to provide an impartial assessment of everything that is taking place. I will provide additional information today on the damage caused to facilities connected with our country.

On March 7, Americans and Israelis shelled and set fire to three oil storage facilities in Tehran and its suburbs. As you are aware, the world has been discussing environmental issues for decades. As a result, a massive amount of harmful hydrocarbon compounds, sulphur oxides and nitrogen oxides has been released into the atmosphere. Oil entered the city’s sewer system and spread throughout the city. Acid rain has been observed. Millions of residents have found themselves in a toxic environment. The impact of these chemicals on air, water, food, flora and fauna will have lasting destructive consequences.

Is all of that, as they claim in Washington and Tel Aviv, being done in the interests of the Iranian people, their liberation and prosperity?

In connection with the destruction of many hospitals, ambulance stations and the large number of wounded, including women and children, the Iranian side has appealed to friendly states, including Russia, with a request for medical supplies. Upon the instruction of President Putin, our country will deliver relevant humanitarian aid to the Iranian people. We will certainly inform you about this through the competent agencies.

The unchecked expansion of the conflict is causing deep concern. As we predicted, the military adventure of the United States and Israel against Iran has destabilised the entire Middle East region. The hostilities have affected the territories of many Gulf Arab States, which has led to devastating humanitarian consequences for these friendly countries and their civilians.

It is necessary to immediately put an end to the military actions that are fraught with an environmental and radiological disaster, among others, for the entire region and return to the search for diplomatic solutions.

Mar. 12: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: Russia & China abstained in the UN Security Council vote on the draft resolution proposed by Bahrain because we disagree with the document’s concept.

The draft ignores the root cause of the current escalation in the region.

Mar. 12: UN Security Council press release

Voting a second time, the Council rejected Moscow’s draft resolution by a vote of 4 in favour (China, Pakistan, Russian Federation, Somalia) to 2 against (Latvia, United States), with 9 abstentions (Bahrain, Colombia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Denmark, France, Greece, Liberia, Panama, United Kingdom). 

“We’re deeply disappointed,” said the Russian Federation’s delegate, taking the floor again. Noting that many Council members’ positions are dictated purely by short-term political interests, bloc solidarity and “the fear that they might fall out of favour with their elder friends”, he added: “This is not even double standards […] we are living through the looking glass.” 

China’s representative also expressed regret that Moscow’s draft resolution was not adopted, declaring: “This is a war that should not have happened, and a war that benefits no one.”

While welcoming the Russian Federation’s desire to contribute to responding to events in the region, Bahrain’s representative said that his delegation abstained from the vote “because that draft resolution adopts a general tone, which in no way reflects the dangerous military escalation currently besetting the region”.

“This draft resolution says nothing about the overwhelming responsibility borne by Iran in the current escalation, including its indiscriminate and unjustified attacks against its regional neighbors who posed no threat,” said France’s delegate, who also abstained. Despite its good intentions, the Russian text was not a viable basis for bringing the Council together and providing the response the circumstances demand, he said. 

The representative of the United States said that “the Russian Federation knew it did not have the votes to adopt its resolution today, yet it insisted on proceeding to a vote”. 

Latvia’s delegate, who voted against the Russian Federation’s proposed text, said it was tabled by a permanent member of the Council which has for years been using force against civilians and civilian infrastructure in a sovereign country. “Iran is now attacking [its neighbours] with the same weapons”, she stressed, describing Moscow’s text as a deeply “cynical” one.

“It is impossible to overlook the hypocrisy of Russia presenting itself here as a guardian of international peace and security,” agreed the representative of the United Kingdom.

Mar. 12: Russian Foreign Ministry repost

#Nebenzia: It would be impossible and unfair to talk about attacks on countries in the #MiddleEast region without regard for the root causes of the current escalation, namely the aggression of the US and Israel against #Iran.

Mar. 12: Russian Foreign Ministry post

Russia’s EMERCOM:

An Il-76 aircraft will deliver 13+ tonnes of first aid & medical supplies for the people of Iran.

The humanitarian aid will be first transported to Azerbaijan, where it will be delivered to the authorized representatives of Iran.

Mar 13: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Egyptian FM Badr Abdelatty.

The prolonged conflict in the Middle East will only bring more suffering to local people, weigh heavily on the regional economy, and further undermine international and regional security and stability.

China stands ready to maintain communication and coordination with regional countries, including Egypt, and continue to play a constructive role in striving for peace.

Mar. 13: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: The U.S. and Israel launched military strikes on Iran on February 28. Media reports say that air strikes on Shajarah Tayyebeh primary school in Iran’s Hormozgan province killed over 160 girls. Is China considering providing humanitarian assistance to Iran?

A: China condemns all indiscriminate attacks against civilians and non-military targets. Attacks on schools and harm to the children in particular seriously violate the international humanitarian law and breach the fundamental principles of human conscience. We deeply mourn for the students from Shajarah Tayyebeh primary school in Iran’s Hormozgan province and extend sincere sympathies to their families. The Red Cross Society of China has decided to provide the Red Crescent Society of Iran with US$200,000 in emergency humanitarian assistance as special funds to support the bereaved parents. China stands ready to continue providing necessary assistance to Iran in a humanitarian spirit to help the Iranian people get through this difficult time...

Q: Saudi Arabia says several intercepted Iranian drones (more than 70) were targeting the Shaybah oilfield which is known as a supplier to Asian markets. What is your comment on the continued attacks on this facility?

A: China is gravely concerned over the continuous tensions in the Middle East. China believes that all countries’ sovereignty, security and territorial integrity should be respected and brook no infringement and condemns any indiscriminate attacks against civilians and non-military targets. All parties should immediately stop the military operations, return to dialogue and negotiation as soon as possible, avoid the ongoing escalation of the situation, and prevent the conflict from spreading and spilling over.

Mar. 13: Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson post

China mourns for the 160+ Iranian girl students killed in an air strike #ShajarahTayyebeh and condemns all indiscriminate attacks against civilians and non-military targets. Attacks on schools and children are unacceptable as they defy international humanitarian law and human conscience.

The Red Cross Society of China will provide the @Iran_RCS with US$200,000 in emergency humanitarian aid specifically for helping the bereaved parents.

Mar. 13: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

China condemns all indiscriminate attacks against civilians and non-military targets. We deeply mourn for the students from Shajarah Tayyebeh primary school in Iran’s Hormozgan province and extend sincere sympathies to their families.

The Red Cross Society of China has decided to provide the Red Crescent Society of Iran with US$200,000 in emergency humanitarian assistance as special funds to support the bereaved parents. China stands ready to continue providing necessary assistance to Iran in a humanitarian spirit to help the Iranian people get through this difficult time.

Mar. 13: Chinese Foreign Ministry statement

On March 12, 2026, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue met with Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani in Manama.

Al Zayani stated that Bahrain has always loved peace and remained committed to achieving regional peace, stability, development and prosperity through dialogue and reconciliation, and should not be subjected to unwarranted attacks. Iran should respond to the call of the international community by immediately ceasing its attacks on Gulf Arab states and ensuring the safety and smooth flow of international waterways. Bahrain highly appreciates China’s just position and welcomes the shuttle mediation efforts of China’s special envoy across the region. Bahrain is willing to work with China to promote the early realization of a ceasefire and restore stability and tranquility in the region.

Zhai Jun stated that China always advocates for resolving regional issues through dialogue and consultation and opposes the use of force at every turn. China believes that in military conflicts, the red line of protecting civilians must not be crossed, non-military targets such as energy, economy and people’s livelihoods should not be attacked, the safety of waterways should not be disrupted, and the indiscriminate use of force is unacceptable. The current escalation of tensions in the region is not in the interests of any party. The most pressing task now is to immediately cease military operations and prevent the further spread of the flames of war. China attaches importance to the legitimate security concerns of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states including Bahrain, and appreciates Bahrain’s responsible attitude of calm and restraint since the outbreak of the conflict. China is willing to continue maintaining close communication and coordination with Bahrain to play a constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the region.

Mar. 13: Russian Foreign Ministry repost

#Nebenzia: Russia’s position vis-à-vis the supposed activation of the mechanism for reinstating anti-Iranian UNSC resolutions is unchanged, principled, and consistent.

The United Kingdom, France, and Germany could not trigger this instrument.

Mar. 13: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#RussiaHelps

On March 12, Russia’s EMERCOM (@MchsRussia) delivered 13K+ tonnes of medical supplies to Azerbaijan with a further transfer to the recipients—the people of Iran.

Mar. 13: Russian Foreign Ministry statement 

On March 13, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.

Their discussion featured a constructive exchange of views on key aspects of Russia’s engagement with the Agency. The significant contribution of Russia to the work of the IAEA was acknowledged. Particular attention was given to the attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran’s peaceful nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards, as well as to ensuring the safety of the Zaporozhskaya Nuclear Power Plant. Several other topics of mutual international interest were also discussed.

Mar. 13: Russian Foreign Ministry post

On March 13, FM Sergey #Lavrov held a meeting with @rafaelmgrossi.

Particular attention was paid to the attacks by the US & Israel on Iran’s peaceful nuclear facilities, as well as to issues related to ensuring the security of the Zaporozhskaya NPP.

Mar. 14: Russian Foreign Ministry post

Muscovites bring flowers to the Embassy of Iran in Russia, expressing deep condolences to the victims of unprovoked aggression by the US & Israel, including the children of the destroyed school in Minab, and in regards to the assassination of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.

Mar. 16: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: U.S. President Donald Trump said he is currently in talks with seven countries to form a coalition to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz and will announce it as early as this week. “Hopefully, China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others that are affected by this artificial constraint, will send ships to the area so that the Hormuz Strait will no longer be a threat by a nation,” he wrote on his social media. What is China’s comment? Is there a request from the U.S.?

A: The recent tense situation in the Strait of Hormuz and waters nearby has impacted the route for international goods and energy trade, disrupting peace and stability in the region and beyond. China once again calls on parties to immediately stop military operations, avoid further escalation of the tense situation and prevent regional turmoil from further impacting the global economy.

Mar. 16: Chinese Foreign Ministry statement

On March 15, 2026, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue met with Foreign Minister of Kuwait Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.

Sheikh Jarrah stated that Kuwait stands as a non-belligerent party and remains steadfastly committed to the pacific settlement of disputes. He urged Iran to immediately cease its attacks against Kuwait and other Gulf neighbors, ensure the safety and unimpeded passage of international shipping lanes, and avert further shocks to the global energy supply. The Kuwaiti side highly appreciates the just position upheld by China and its peace-promoting endeavors. Kuwait welcomes the shuttle diplomacy conducted by the Chinese Special Envoy in the region and stands ready to strengthen communication and coordination with China to jointly promote the early restoration of peace and stability in the region.

Zhai Jun remarked that the prevailing regional turbulence, which has inflicted profound suffering upon Kuwait and other Gulf countries, is a scenario China is loath to witness. The military strikes launched by the United States and Israel against Iran, absent authorization from the United Nations Security Council, constitute a flagrant violation of international law and are resolutely opposed by China. Concurrently, China condemns all acts of indiscriminate attacks against innocent civilians and non-military targets. It is China’s position that the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of the Gulf Cooperation Council states must be fully respected, energy and economic infrastructures should be spared from attacks, and the safety of navigation routes must remain inviolable. Achieving an immediate ceasefire and halting hostilities is a matter of paramount urgency. The international community must urge the parties involved to cease military operations forthwith to prevent a further deterioration of the tense situation. China commends Kuwait for its attitude of restraint and its calm response, and stands ready to work in concert with Kuwait to play a constructive role in de-escalating the situation.

Mar. 16: Chinese Special Envoy Zhai Jun phone call with Qatari Minister Mohammed bin Abdulaziz al-Khulaifi 

Khulaifi stated that the ongoing crisis has inflicted grave losses upon Qatar and has exerted a profound and deleterious impact on international energy supplies and global economic development, serving the interests of no party whatsoever. The international community must take action to promote the de-escalation of regional tensions. The Qatari side commended the just stance upheld by China and expressed readiness to maintain close coordination with the Chinese side to encourage the relevant parties to return at an early date to the right path of resolving differences through dialogue and negotiation.

Zhai Jun remarked that the Chinese side fully understands the Qatari position regarding the current situation. Achieving a ceasefire and resolving issues through dialogue and negotiation represents a universal consensus within the international community; the critical imperative lies in translating this consensus into action. All responsible nations should exert their respective influences to prevent the escalation of tensions and avert a deterioration of the situation to a point of irreparability. The Chinese side expressed its appreciation for the significant and long-standing mediatory role played by Qatar in international and regional affairs. China stands ready to work in concert with Qatar to leverage respective influence and make concerted efforts to promote a ceasefire, de-escalate the situation, and restore peace and tranquility at the earliest possible date.

Mar. 16: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov address to Moscow Non-Proliferation Conference [excerpt]

Colleagues,

I am pleased to welcome the participants of the Moscow Non-Proliferation Conference.

This year, your discussions take place against the backdrop of acute military-political crises in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf. The fate of the nuclear non-proliferation regime is a matter of serious concern. During the armed aggression by Israel and the United States that began on February 28, not only Iran’s political and military leadership, but also civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, were targeted, resulting in numerous casualties, including children. Nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards were also targeted.

Mar. 16: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov remarks to press [excerpts]

I have held substantive and beneficial talks with my Kenyan counterpart Musalia Mudavadi. We emphasised our commitment to further strengthening the traditions of friendship, mutual understanding and mutual support that date back to the period of decolonisation. We shared our assessments of the state of affairs in the Middle East in connection with the armed aggression of the United States and Israel against Iran, and the deep crisis besetting Palestine. There is no sign of improvement in sight. We plan to draw the attention of the UN Security Council to this matter. We also stressed the importance of an immediate cessation of any actions in the confrontation between the United States and Israel against Iran that harm civilians and civilian infrastructure.

Q: Moscow is ready and willing to act as a mediator to achieve peaceful resolution of the conflict in the Middle East. What risks to global security could hostilities in this region pose if they are not halted? How might they affect the stability of global energy markets?

A: Do I understand correctly that by the conflict in the Middle East you mean the situation surrounding Iran in the Persian Gulf?

Let me comment on it straight away. Previously, when people spoke of the Middle East, they primarily meant the Palestinian issue, the creation of a Palestinian state in accordance with UN resolutions, which has been openly sabotaged for decades. Recently, it has even been openly stated that no Palestinian state will ever be created. Now that the aggression by the United States and Israel against the Islamic Republic of Iran is underway, everyone is talking about a crisis or conflict in the Middle East, but Palestine is no longer what they have in mind. It has been conveniently forgotten.

We believe it would be a major blow to the credibility of the international community, primarily the United Nations. Everyone, above all the countries of the region, the Arab states, must recognise their responsibility. We are ready to actively support an approach where the UN is responsible for its decisions.

Our position regarding the situation surrounding Iran is well known. We have set it out in several statements. We will continue to express our assessments of ongoing developments. The unprovoked aggression, which could not go unanswered, is what matters most in this regard.

The plotters of the strikes on the Islamic Republic of Iran (as was the case in June 2025, the strikes were launched during talks) assumed they would achieve their objective of making that country completely subservient to them within 24 or even fewer hours. They now know how mistaken they were.

Of course, Iran is defending itself. It is responding to aggression by striking military infrastructure in the region that belongs to the countries that attacked it. Unfortunately, the GCC countries are also affected as a result.

We call for an end to hostilities and for a return to the negotiating table, if talks have any credibility left.

Secondly, as an urgent and immediate step, everything must be done to ensure that all parties to this crisis cease actions that damage civilian infrastructure and cause civilian casualties both in the Gulf Arab states and in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

These are absolutely urgent matters. I hope we will work together with other sensible states to promote this approach in the international arena.

I’d be hard pressed to say anything definitive about the prospects of this conflict. Recently, US President Donald Trump stated that Iran had been defeated. On the same day, a representative of the Israel Defence Forces said: “We have thousands of targets ahead. We are ready, with plans through at least the Jewish holiday of Passover, about three weeks from now.”

So, it’s hard to tell what this crisis may end with if the sides don’t stop it immediately, do not come to their senses, and do not start working on agreements that, this time, will not be thwarted by anyone.

There’s need for guarantees. I fully understand that Iran needs them.

Everyone is talking about the Strait of Hormuz. The President of France, Emmanuel Macron, said he had called the President of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, demanding that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz be ensured.

For some reason, no one is concerned about freedom of navigation in the Mediterranean or the Baltic Sea, where unlawful seizures of tankers have become more frequent. In the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, Ukrainian terrorists have attacked tankers. One of them—Arctic Metagas—has almost sunk and is drifting in the Mediterranean. Recently, a Greek tanker came under attack in the Black Sea. The TurkStream and Blue Stream gas pipeline infrastructure has been targeted as well.

All of the above goes hand in hand with the crisis surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and threats by the Ansar Allah movement to block the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. Those engaging in terrorist attacks on energy infrastructure and tankers transporting hydrocarbons are seeking to draw attention to themselves.

As you can see, I began with the situation surrounding Iran, but the consequences are much more ramified. They are no longer regional, but global.

To reiterate, together with our like-minded partners, we will advocate for an immediate cessation of hostilities and for a political settlement. As President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly made clear, we are ready to play a mediating role in this political process, if anyone needs us to play this role.

We believe we are capable of doing it. However, when our US colleagues say their main objective is to take possession of all enriched uranium (over 400 kilogrammes, regardless of enrichment level), then this is no longer about readiness for talks or willingness to make use of Russia’s good offices, as was the case in 2015 when the agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme was concluded and approved by the UN Security Council.

It turns out the United States is simply after appropriating this energy resource, just as it is seeking to take control of hydrocarbon resources in Latin America, the Caribbean, the Persian Gulf, and elsewhere around the world.

Mar. 16: Russian Foreign Ministry post

FM #Lavrov:

Those who launched strikes on Iran believed it would be subdued within 24 hours. 

They now know how seriously they were mistaken.

We call to end the hostilities & return to the negotiating table, if talks have any credibility left.

Mar. 16: Russian Foreign Ministry statement

Through their treacherous and unprovoked attack on Iran, the United States and Israel have unleashed an unprecedented spiral of violence in the Middle East, with no end in sight. The toll of victims of the American-Israeli aggression runs into the hundreds and thousands, with irreparable damage inflicted upon civilian infrastructure. Neighbouring countries are also suffering from retaliatory Iranian strikes, while shipping along the vital global economic route through the Strait of Hormuz has been paralysed. Once a stable and prosperous region, the Persian Gulf is rapidly descending into a maelstrom of chaos and uncertainty. The economic repercussions of the reckless venture initiated by Washington and Tel Aviv are being felt ever more acutely far beyond the conflict zone—indeed, on a global scale.

Meanwhile, instead of seeking paths to de-escalation and a return to negotiations, there is a further intensification of mutual hostility, with increasingly lethal and destructive strikes being carried out.

We reiterate our resolute call to all parties for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a shift of the situation onto a political and diplomatic track. Above all, attacks on civilian facilities and infrastructure must cease, and the death and suffering of innocent populations—both in the Arab states of the Persian Gulf and in Iran—must be halted.

As before, the Russian Federation stands ready, within the scope of its available capabilities, to contribute to a long-term and sustainable resolution of the conflict.

Mar. 16: Russian Foreign Ministry post

Through their treacherous and unprovoked attack on Iran, the US and Israel have unleashed an unprecedented spiral of violence in the Middle East.

We reiterate our resolute call to all parties for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

Mar. 17: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: It’s reported that Trump said he could delay his visit to China if China doesn’t assist with the Strait of Hormuz. What’s China’s response?

A: We noted that the U.S. has publicly made clarifications on the misguided media reports, calling them completely “false.” The U.S. side stressed that the visit is not linked to the issue over the Strait of Hormuz...

Q: The UNHCR recently declared the ongoing crisis in the Middle East a major humanitarian emergency. The affected regions already host 25 million people as refugees, a large number of civilians are killed or injured in Iran, nearly 800,000 people are displaced in Lebanon, and countries such as Jordan and Iraq are affected. Does China consider providing relevant countries with humanitarian assistance?

A: China stays committed to the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity, internationalism and a humanitarian spirit. The ongoing conflict inflicted an excruciating humanitarian disaster on people and countries in the region, including Iran. China deeply sympathizes with people in relevant countries and our hearts go out to them.

China has announced the decision to provide emergency humanitarian assistance to Iran, Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq. We hope this will help ease the difficult humanitarian situation facing the people there. China will continue striving for a ceasefire, an early return of peace and stability to the region, and a stop to the spread of humanitarian crisis.

Mar. 17: Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson post

We take note of the U.S. clarification about certain media reports. The U.S. side has made clear that those reports are completely “false” and that President Trump’s visit to China is not linked to the issue over the Strait of Hormuz. 

The two sides remain in communication on President Trump’s visit to China, including the dates.

Mar. 17: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

China has announced the decision to provide emergency humanitarian assistance to Iran, Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq. We hope this will help ease the difficult humanitarian situation facing the people there.

China will continue striving for a ceasefire, an early return of peace and stability to the region, and a stop to the spread of humanitarian crisis.

Mar. 17: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

The recent tense situation in the Strait of Hormuz and waters nearby has impacted the route for international goods and energy trade, disrupting peace and stability in the region and beyond.

China once again calls on parties to immediately stop military operations, avoid further escalation of the tense situation and prevent regional turmoil from further impacting the global economy.

Mar. 18: Chinese Foreign Ministry statement

On March 17, 2026, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue met with Secretary-General of the League of Arab States (LAS) Ahmed Aboul Gheit in Cairo.

Ahmed Aboul Gheit stated that the LAS is deeply concerned about the drastic changes in the Middle East situation and the rapid escalation of regional crises. Iran should actively respond to the international community’s call by ceasing its attacks on Gulf Arab states, ensuring the safety and smooth flow of the Strait of Hormuz, and avoiding disruption to international trade and regional oil exports. The LAS appreciates China’s position of promoting peace talks, and hopes that China will continue to exert its positive influence and role, and to take creative measures to promote an immediate ceasefire by all parties concerned and a return to the correct track of dialogue and negotiation.

Zhai Jun stated that China deeply sympathizes with the involvement of multiple Arab countries in the conflict and the civilian casualties caused. China supports the legitimate demands of Arab countries to safeguard their own security and defend their lawful rights. The most pressing task now is to cease hostilities and halt the conflict. All responsible countries in the international community should urge the parties concerned to immediately cease military operations. The LAS has long been committed to maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East, and plays an important role in regional and international affairs. China is willing to work with the LAS to actively engage with all parties involved, and to make unremitting efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

Mar. 18: Chinese Foreign Ministry statement on meeting with Egypt

On March 17, 2026, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue met with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty in Cairo.

Badr Abdelatty stated that the current escalation of tensions in the region has brought severe consequences, which are not in the interests of any party. Iran must cease its attacks on Arab countries. The ongoing conflict should not divert the international community’s attention from the Palestinian question. The relevant Gaza ceasefire agreement as well as post-conflict governance and reconstruction arrangements should be implemented effectively and practically. Egypt and China share a high degree of consensus on regional issues. Egypt is willing to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China, and work together to promote the restoration of peace and stability in the region.

Zhai Jun stated that the further spread of the flames of war will cause greater losses, and will impact regional economic development and global energy security. The most pressing task now is to immediately cease hostilities and return to the correct track of resolving disputes through diplomatic means. The Palestinian question is at the core of the Middle East issue, bearing on the peace, stability and long-term security of the Middle East region. It must not be overlooked or forgotten again. Post-conflict arrangements in Gaza should be aligned with the implementation of the two-State solution. China is willing to work hand in hand with Egypt to play a constructive role in promoting the early de-escalation of tensions in the region.

Mar. 18: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Continuing his efforts to mediate and de-escalate tensions, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue met with the foreign ministers of #Bahrain, #Kuwait and #Egypt, as well as the Secretary-General of the #ArabLeague. He also held a phone conversation with the FM of #Qatar.

Mar. 18: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi meeting with Emirati envoy

On March 18, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs Wang Yi held talks with Special Envoy of UAE President to China Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak in Beijing.

Wang Yi conveyed warm greetings from President Xi Jinping to President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, stating that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-UAE relations have achieved substantial progress. Amid the accelerating evolution of profound changes unseen in a century and an international landscape marked by turbulence and disorder, the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East are a cause for concern. In this context, the strategic significance of China-UAE relations has become even more prominent. It is all the more important for both sides to maintain timely strategic communication and enhance strategic mutual trust, which will contribute to realizing peace and stability in the Middle East at an early date. China stands ready to work with the UAE to strengthen high-level exchanges, deepen the alignment of development strategies, and promote the China-UAE comprehensive strategic partnership to a higher level.

Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak conveyed sincere greetings from President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to President Xi Jinping, stating that UAE-China relations are at an unprecedented high level. The UAE views China as a true friend it can rely on and trust, and expresses full confidence in China’s future development. The UAE stands ready to strengthen high-level exchanges with China, deepen cooperation in fields such as education, culture, energy, and the economy, and advance the “century-long vision” for the development of bilateral relations.

Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak briefed on the latest developments in the Middle East situation. Wang Yi reiterated China’s principled position, expressing gratitude for the UAE’s efforts to safeguard the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions. He emphasized that this war should never have happened and there is no need for it to continue; greater casualties and losses must be avoided. China firmly supports the UAE in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity, condemns attacks targeting civilians and civilian facilities, and will continue to mediate a ceasefire and an end to hostilities, so as to restore peace and stability to the Middle East at an early date.

Mar. 18: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Wang Yi, Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, held talks with Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Presidential Special Envoy of the UAE to China, in Beijing.

This is a war that should not have happened, and there is even less justification for it to drag on. Further casualties and losses must be avoided.

#China firmly supports the #UAE in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity, and condemns attacks against civilians and civilian facilities. China will continue to actively engage in mediation for a ceasefire, striving to restore peace and stability to the Middle East at an early date.

Mar. 18: Russian Foreign Ministry statement

Over the past few days, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas and the leaders of several West European countries have tried to create the impression that they have no relation to the current developments in the Middle East, that it is not their war.

We categorically reject this approach. It is yet another blatant twisting of facts and an attempt to avoid responsibility for the escalation in the region. It is well known that West European authorities have pursued a colonial policy in the region for decades, cloaking their intentions in demagoguery and outright lies.

It was European governments that prevented the search for diplomatic solutions before the US and Israeli aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran. They added fuel to the fire, juggled with legal aspects allegedly for relaunching the snapback mechanism, and fuelled tensions. And now they pretend that it is not their headache. It won’t work.

The following are some of the illustrative examples of their actions and statements.

On August 28, 2025, the foreign ministers of Britain, Germany and France appealed to the UN Secretary General and the President of the UN Security Council over the alleged non-performance of Iran’s commitments under the JCPOA. They formulated their letter as a notification in accordance with paragraph 11 of Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015), which invokes the process of reinstatement of UN sanctions known as the “snapback” mechanism. However, European countries had no legal or procedural grounds for launching the snapback mechanism, including because they themselves regularly violated the JCPOA.

Britain, Germany and France repeatedly submitted anti-Iran resolutions to the IAEA Board of Governors (June 2020, June 2022, November 2022, June 2024, November 2024, June 2025, and November 2025). The resolution that was adopted in June 2025 provided a political cover for the first US-Israeli aggression against Iran, and the November 2025 resolution wiped out the Cairo agreements on the re-introduction of IAEA safeguards in Iran after the US and Israeli strikes in June 2025.

If we dig a little deeper, we will see that the deliberate creation of an enemy image of Iran was the core policy of the European leaders.

December 7, 2016, UK Prime Minister Theresa May: “I am clear-eyed about the threat that Iran poses to the Gulf and the wider Middle East.”

January 10, 2020, French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian: “Iran could have nuclear weapons in one to two years.”

January 21, 2022, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock: “Iran is increasing the nuclear spiral of escalation.”

April 15, 2024, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak: “Iran’s nuclear programme...threatens international peace and security.”

October 2, 2024, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz: “Iran risks setting the entire region on fire—this must be prevented at all costs.”

January 6, 2025, President of France Emmanuel Macron: Iran is the “main strategic and security challenge” for Europe in the Middle East. Iran’s nuclear programme is fast approaching a “point of no return.”

All this has been said contrary to facts and common sense, which is why the European ruling elite is in the same boat with the aggressors.

Mar. 18: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan 

Key elements of the bilateral agenda were examined, emphasising the necessity for establishing conditions to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of strategic Russian-Turkish energy projects. In particular, given the Kiev regime’s persistent attempts to compromise the infrastructure of the Blue Stream and TurkStream gas pipelines, special attention was accorded to the unequivocal importance of ensuring comprehensive pipeline security.

Multilateral cooperation platforms, including the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, were deliberated upon. Sergey Lavrov underscored the imperative of a measured and objective approach when discussing various matters and aspects of collaboration within this framework.

Views were exchanged regarding the situation concerning Iran. Russia’s principled stance was outlined, advocating the urgent de-escalation of the crisis provoked by strikes against the Islamic Republic of Iran by Israel and the United States, as well as the prioritisation of non-forceful political and diplomatic methods. The readiness of our country to facilitate settlement efforts in every possible way—including coordination with Türkiye—to reduce regional tensions, was reaffirmed.

Both parties expressed a commitment to maintaining constructive and substantive high-level bilateral contacts.

Mar. 18: Russian Foreign Ministry statement

We strongly condemn the reckless and wholly unacceptable missile strike carried out within the inner perimeter of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant just a few short metres away from an operational power unit.

We have repeatedly made it clear to Israel and the United States, which continue the aggressive military campaign against the Islamic Republic of Iran, that creating threats to the life and safety of the numerous Russian personnel remaining at the site was absolutely unacceptable.

Tel Aviv and Washington must stop their reckless attacks on nuclear infrastructure facilities, which create real risks of a radiological and environmental disaster on a regional scale.

We expect the International Atomic Energy Agency, under whose safeguards the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant operates, to come up with an unequivocal condemnation of this outrageous incident. We also look forward to hearing an appropriate response from all responsible and sensible members of the international community, above all the Gulf States, which could be the first to suffer the consequences.

We call on the parties involved in the conflict to come to their senses and to make efforts towards an immediate ceasefire and de-escalation of tensions. Continued hostilities are fraught with unprecedented ramifications for all of the Middle East, including in the nuclear sphere.

Mar. 18: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: Russia strongly condemns the absolutely unacceptable missile strike on the inner perimeter of the Bushehr NPP.

The US & Israel must abandon reckless attacks on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.

We expect a clear & unequivocal condemnation from @iaeaorg.

Mar. 18: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: On March 12, an @MchsRussia Il-76 delivered the first batch of requested humanitarian aid—over 13 tonnes of medical supplies—to Lankaran Airport in Azerbaijan, near the Iranian border.

We will continue supporting the friendly people of Iran.

#RussiaHelps

Mar. 18: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: The escalation in the Persian Gulf

• Causes turbulence in the oil & gas markets.
• Irreparably damages agricultural production.
• May result in a major environmental disaster in the region & beyond.

Mar. 18: Russian Foreign Ministry post

#Zakharova: We are deeply concerned that Israeli strikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon are causing civilian casualties & damage to civilian infrastructure.

We call for a swift return to a political & diplomatic settlement.

Mar. 18: Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova press conference

TOPIC: The impact of the Middle East conflict on global energy and food markets and the environment 

We now move on to the situation in the Middle East. We comment on developments there on a regular basis, indeed daily, through operational updates, responses to media questions, and official statements by the Foreign Ministry. The situation is also assessed in detail in public remarks by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

Today, I would like to focus on key aspects relating to food and energy markets, as well as the environment, drawing on concrete data.

The escalation of the situation, or rather, the tragedy unfolding in the Persian Gulf, has additional negative dimensions.

First, this is the world’s largest oil and gas producing region. Middle Eastern states are among the key producers and suppliers of energy resources. According to the International Energy Agency, Persian Gulf countries account for approximately one-third of global oil supplies and 40 percent of natural gas. At the same time, around one-fifth of all global oil exports and more than 30 percent of liquefied natural gas pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

Such a concentration of resources and supply routes makes the global market highly vulnerable to destabilisation in the region, posing a direct threat to global energy security. This is something Western “analysts” have long warned about, and now it has become a reality.

The conflict in the Middle East has thrown oil and gas markets into turbulence and inflicted significant damage on the global economy. Analytical studies by leading Western investment companies indicate that consumers are currently facing a daily shortfall of 15 million barrels of crude oil and 4.5 million barrels of refined petroleum products. In addition, around 20 percent of global liquefied natural gas supplies have already been withdrawn from the market. According to available estimates, global LNG exports have declined by 219,000 tonnes per day, equivalent to roughly one-fifth of daily global methane consumption. This could result in a shortfall of approximately 80 million tonnes per year.

Experts estimate that, in the event of a 30-day supply disruption, oil prices could stabilise at around $76 per barrel by the end of the year; a two-month disruption could push prices to $93 per barrel. If the conflict continues to escalate, prices could rise to as much as $150-200 per barrel. An increase of $10 per barrel may reduce global GDP by 0.1 percent. This is now an issue affecting everyone. A rise in oil prices to $125 per barrel would inevitably lead to a recession in European economies.

In simple terms, the scale of the impact of the conflict in the Middle East on the global economy will depend on its duration and intensity.

Global energy markets reacted immediately to developments in the Middle East. Due to damage to energy infrastructure and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Brent crude prices fluctuated sharply during the first two weeks, peaking on March 9 at close to $120 per barrel. At present, prices remain firmly above $100 per barrel (as of March 17, 2026, $104.08 per barrel). Markets have always responded to instability in the Middle East. It is worth recalling that on July 4, 2008, Brent crude reached a historic high of $143,95 per barrel.

Over the first days of the hostilities, the price of April gas futures at European stock markets grew by 24.7 percent. The price remains extremely volatile to this day, ranging around $600-700 per 1,000 cubic metres.

Insurance companies have increased risk fees exponentially and introduced further emergency surcharges. The average cost of vessel chartering for Persian Gulf navigation has grown six times since February 27 and, depending on vessel type, ranges from $200,000 to $500,000 per day.

Seeking measures to prevent further destabilisation of energy markets, 32 countries of the International Energy Agency have adopted a joint decision to release 400 million barrels of oil from strategic reserves. The United States also intends to retrieve 172 million barrels of ‘black gold’ from its reserves. However, according to different estimates, this amount of newly available oil can only cover 20 to 25 days of the traffic blockage in the Strait of Hormuz.

I must mention another problem stemming from the US-Israeli aggression against Iran. Since the launch of the military activity in the Middle East, food markets have reacted with surging prices on fertilisers and their components. The cost is rising due to concerns about a potential full blocking of the Strait of Hormuz as the Gulf countries are among the major fertiliser producers and exporters. Experts estimate that some 30 percent of all fertilisers and a considerable share of commodities for fertiliser production pass through this transport artery every year. This situation is further aggravated by seasonal demands and the rising price of the natural gas used in nitrogen fertiliser production. On average, agricultural chemicals have become 20 percent more expensive since the start of the year. For example, carbamide currently costs $700 per tonne in Asia, which is the highest over three and a half years.

What happened to human rights activists and their statements? Food security and rising commodity and fertiliser prices cannot be isolated from basic human needs. These are the human rights that trigger so many debates and concerns. The impression is that the only human right still available in the West is the right to change gender while the other rights have been phased out. Right now, all human rights institutions in the West must be ringing all the bells, to draw the attention of the entire international community to consequences for the poorest countries where people are dying of hunger, disease and simply struggling to even get access to clean water and some sort of nutrition. Where is everybody? Pretty much where they were when they ignored the killings of children in Donbass. But we will return to this later.

Grain prices are growing less uncontrollably at the moment, the growth remaining within 3-5%—in the wealthiest countries. And what about the poorest? Yet, because of the rising energy costs, more expensive logistics and shrinking croplands, we may expect essential food to grow in price quite soon. Experts forecast that, if the conflict persists in the same dynamic all the way to the next autumn, harvests may drop by 50 percent, potentially causing the largest spiral of global food inflation in the past years.

In the long term, some preliminary assessments show that the aggregate losses from persistently high energy prices, logistics difficulties and interrupted supplies of agrochemistry products to global markets may reach 0.5 percent to 2 percent of the global GDP, which is equivalent to $0.5-2 trillion.

I am compelled to underscore that the aggression perpetrated by the armed forces of Israel and the United States against Iran and their assaults on energy installations are resulting in environmental pollution. Recall, incidentally, how election campaigns over the past 15–20 years have been constructed around the environmental agenda? The munitions deployed contain heavy metals such as lead, chromium, nickel, cadmium, among others, alongside other toxic substances like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen-based compounds, contaminating the soil and adversely impacting human health.

Tonnes of debris from demolished buildings and waste on Iranian soil due to the bombings will, quite evidently, constitute a severe environmental issue for decades to come. The resultant layer of explosion by-products, burning oil, destroyed military equipment and munitions, household waste, construction debris, chemicals, tyres, decomposing biomass, and sewage is set to cause an unprecedented release of additional greenhouse gases and heightened pollution of the soil, groundwater, coastal marine waters, and atmosphere not only in Iran but throughout the entire region.

Regrettably, assaults on energy infrastructure have become a routine and unremarkable feature of military conflicts. However, in Iran’s case, the strikes are focusing on oil storage facilities in close proximity to the densely populated capital. This has engendered the largest environmental pollution in and around Tehran. Reports indicate that following fires in fuel storage tanks in the capital, a black rain ensued. Ordinarily, rain washes away pollution, but in this instance—on the contrary—it may exacerbate the situation. Pollutants diluted in water are considerably more toxic. Exposure can have detrimental health effects, including children. Where is UNICEF? Where are the global “defenders” of children’s rights, who previously displayed avatars of “Syrian boys,” accusing those unconnected with the events?

The World Health Organisation has documented a significant deterioration in the sanitary, epidemiological, and environmental conditions in the region, accompanied by an upsurge in respiratory diseases, eye and skin conditions due to the infiltration of substantial amounts of toxic substances into the soil, water, and food supplies. The situation is exacerbated by diminished access to medical care. According to WHO, since February 28 of this year, strikes have impacted 18 medical facilities in Iran, resulting in the deaths of eight healthcare workers, and 25 in Lebanon. This has severely disrupted the healthcare system. Emergency medical teams are struggling to function, there is an acute shortage of medicines and medical supplies, including life-saving ones, and the risk of infectious disease outbreaks is rising. Additional strain on the healthcare system is driven by increasing migration flows. And now, consider the suffering endured by those in the Gaza Strip. They were being exterminated. How many tens of thousands fell victim then? According to the Organisation, the aforementioned factors are creating an emergency healthcare situation, posing serious risks primarily to the most vulnerable groups.

Thus, the current situation in the Middle East, in the long term, threatens to escalate the cost of the entire production chain due to expensive energy resources and fuel shortages. It is causing irreparable damage to agricultural production as fertiliser prices soar. It poses real risks of acute shortages of agricultural products in energy-dependent countries in Asia, Africa, and Europe. Consequently, it may lead to the largest environmental disaster in the Persian Gulf region and beyond.

Mar. 18: Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova press conference 

TOPIC: Humanitarian aid to Iran 

Russia not only registers, analyses and makes conclusions regarding this. We reported during the previous briefing that Iran has asked for Russia’s emergency assistance in the form of medicines in light of the destruction of many hospitals and ambulance stations, as well as a large number of wounded civilians, including women and children, as a result of the US-Israeli aggression. We have immediately provided this assistance to our neighbour and strategic partner.

As per the instructions of President Putin, on March 12, an Il-76 transport aircraft of the Emergencies Ministry delivered the first batch of humanitarian aid—over 13 tonnes of medicines and pharmaceuticals—to Lankaran on the Azerbaijani-Iranian border. The cargo was immediately turned over to authorised Iranian representatives and forwarded to Iran by an overland route. We would like to express our gratitude to Azerbaijan for this assistance.

We have always promptly responded to such requests from Tehran, including in April 2019 when flash flooding affected the country’s north-eastern regions, in February 2023 following a destructive earthquake in the province of West Azerbaijan, in May 2024, when a search and rescue operation was conducted in the area where the helicopter of President Ebrahim Raisi crashed, and in April 2025 when we helped to put out a technogenic fire in the port of Bandar Abbas.

We will continue to provide assistance to the friendly Iranian people, who are going through a terrible ordeal.

Mar. 19: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: It’s reported that Iranian Secretary of Supreme National Security Council Ali Larijani was killed in Israeli strikes. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and he have authorized the Israel Defense Forces to kill any Iranian official without the need for additional authorization. What’s China’s comment?

A: China is shocked by that remark. China is always against the use of force in international relations. The killing of Iranian leaders and attacks on civilian targets are by no means acceptable. As the conflict rages on in the Middle East and tensions continue to escalate and spill over, the international community is widely calling for an early ceasefire and end to hostilities. China calls on parties to the conflict to immediately stop military operations and prevent plunging the region into chaos...

Q: We noted that Zhai Jun, Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue, recently visited Middle East countries. Could you brief us on his visits?

A: As we speak, the conflict is still raging in the Middle East and tensions continue to escalate and spill over. To help calm the situation and bring about peace, Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue Zhai Jun visited several countries in the region over the past few days. He met with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait and Egypt, as well as the Secretaries General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the League of Arab States, and had a phone conversation with Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Qatar for in-depth exchanges of views on the regional situation.

During the visit, Special Envoy Zhai Jun elaborated on China’s position regarding the current situation, and stressed that a ceasefire and an end to the hostilities provide the fundamental solution, and urged parties to the conflict to immediately cease military operations and prevent the situation from becoming a complete chaos. He called for dialogue and negotiation and resolving differences through political and diplomatic means. He pointed out that the purposes and principles of the UN Charter should be upheld, the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of GCC countries should be fully respected, non-military targets should not be attacked and the safety of shipping lanes should not be interrupted. All parties have commended China’s just position and efforts in promoting peace, and looked to China to play a bigger role. 

Special Envoy Zhai Jun’s visit to the Middle East is part of China’s intensive diplomatic mediation effort. China is a responsible major country and a sincere friend of countries in the region. To work for reconciliation and peace in the region is a cornerstone of China’s Middle East policy. Our mediation effort will not cease as long as the conflict continues...

Q: This is about the Philippines. We read the news that the Philippine agriculture secretary said yesterday that China has assured the Philippines that it will not restrict fertilizer exports to the country. We also see news that Chinese ambassador in Manila has also met with the Philippine energy minister to talk about energy security. Could you share with us what was discussed? Was Manila interested in increasing its energy security through China’s help? Was oil supply discussed? Would China be able to offer the same kind of reassurance about energy supply the way it did for fertilizers?

A: The situation in the Middle East dealt a heavy blow to global energy security. Relevant countries need to stop military operations at once and prevent regional turmoil from further impacting global growth. China stands ready to strengthen coordination and collaboration with Southeast Asian countries and jointly address energy security issues.

On your question about fertilizers, China is a major producer and consumer of fertilizers and a key participant in global fertilizers trade. While ensuring that domestic demand is met, China exports some of its fertilizers to international markets. For anything specific, I’d refer you to competent authorities.

Mar. 19: Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson post

Zhai Jun, China’s Special Envoy on the Middle East Issue, has been traveling in the Middle East to urge ceasefire and end to the hostilities. He called for dialogue and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. There should be no attacks on non-military targets or disruption to the safety of shipping lanes.

During his shuttle-diplomacy trip, Zhai Jun met with foreign minsters of #SaudiArabia, #Bahrain, #Kuwait and #Egypt, and secretary generals of the Gulf Cooperation and the League of Arab States. He also had a phone conversation with #Qatar’s Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The countries commended China’s position and mediation effort. 

China will not cease its effort for peace as long as the conflict continues.

Mar. 19: Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson post

China is shocked that the Israeli military is said to have been “authorized to kill any Iranian official.”

China is firmly against the use of force in international relations. The killing of Iranian leaders and attacks on civilian targets are by no means acceptable.

Mar. 19: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper

On March 19, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper at the latter’s request, and the two sides exchanged views focusing on the current situation in the Middle East.

Yvette Cooper briefed on the UK’s perspective regarding the current Middle East situation, stating that in the face of an increasingly turbulent world, the UK hopes to maintain close communication with China to put an end to hostilities at an early date, resume diplomatic negotiations, and seek a long-term solution.

Wang Yi elaborated on China’s position, noting that the current conflict in the Middle East is escalating and hostilities are expanding, which not only undermines regional peace and stability but also directly impacts international energy, finance, trade, and shipping, thereby harming the common interests of all countries. A protracted war yields no winners; a ceasefire and an end to hostilities reflect the common aspiration of the international community. China urges all parties to immediately cease military actions, resolve differences through equal dialogue, and jointly safeguard regional peace and stability. As permanent members of the United Nations (UN) Security Council, China and the UK bear the responsibility of maintaining international peace and security. Both countries should enhance communication, consistently pursue actions conducive to peace, and jointly commit to upholding the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the basic norms governing international relations, so as to prevent further erosion of the international order and the foundations of world peace.

The two sides also exchanged views on China-UK relations and agreed that both countries should actively implement the consensus reached by the leaders of both countries, enhance exchanges, and continuously advance the long-term, stable comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the UK, so as to inject stability and certainty to a world marked by turbulence and change.

Mar. 19: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

China is always against the use of force in international relations. The killing of Iranian leaders and attacks on civilian targets are by no means acceptable.

Mar. 19: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

To work for reconciliation and peace in the region is a cornerstone of China’s Middle East policy. Our mediation effort will not cease as long as the conflict continues.

Mar. 19: Russian Foreign Ministry statement

On March 19, a missile strike by the Israeli Air Force in southern Lebanon wounded RT television crew members who were on an editorial assignment. RT reporter Steve Sweeney and cameraman Ali Rida Sbeity were wounded when a munition exploded in close proximity to the filming location. They received the necessary medical help. We wish them a speedy recovery.

The missile was used by the Israeli military against unarmed civilians, a category which, under international humanitarian law, includes members of the media. The crew’s clothing bore clearly visible “press” markings; they carried nothing but cameras and microphones, and the explosive item landed on a site where there were no military targets. These circumstances indicate that the attack on the journalists was deliberate and targeted, which is also confirmed by footage captured by the cameraman showing the detonation of the munition.

We regard such actions by the Israeli side and Israeli military as a gross violation of international law, a deliberate obstruction of the work of media professionals, and an attempt on their safety and lives. We look forward to seeing these actions receive an appropriate assessment from relevant multilateral bodies, primarily the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and UNESCO, as well as other human rights institutions that defend professional rights and legitimate interests of the global journalistic community. We insist on carrying out a thorough investigation of this incident by the Israeli authorities, holding the culprits accountable and preventing such accidents from happening in the future.

The Russian side will convey its assessment of the incident to the Ambassador of Israel to the Russian Federation who will be summoned to the Foreign Ministry soon.

Mar. 19: Russian Foreign Ministry post

MFA Spox #Zakharova: On March 19, a missile strike by the Israeli Air Force in southern Lebanon wounded RT TV crew members.

The circumstances indicate: the attack was deliberate & targeted.

We insist on carrying out a thorough investigation.

Mar. 19: Russian Foreign Ministry statement

Moscow is gravely concerned about the continued armed confrontation in the Persian Gulf and the risks of further escalation. The scale of damage to energy and other critical infrastructure in Iran and neighbouring Arab states is increasing.

We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, which are the result of unprovoked aggression by the United States and Israel against Iran.

Russia, together with China, Türkiye and other like-minded partners, stands ready to facilitate a settlement of the conflict and to promote the resolution of existing differences through political and diplomatic means, with a view to achieving long-term, sustainable stabilisation in the region, taking into account the interests of all states concerned. We consistently advocate the need to create conditions for peaceful coexistence, security and good-neighbourly relations between our friendly Arab partners and Iran.

We emphasise that the first step in this direction must be the immediate abandonment by the United States and Israel of their ongoing reckless military action.

In this context, we have taken note of the considered and thoughtful article by Foreign Minister of the Sultanate of Oman Badr bin Hamad bin Hamoud Al Busaidi, published in The Economist on March 18, 2026. The proposals set out in the article are broadly in line with our own views on the need to establish a security architecture in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf that ensures a balance of interests among all states in the region. We share the Omani Foreign Minister’s view on the importance of launching an inclusive regional dialogue aimed at reaching agreements on confidence-building and transparency measures in the field of nuclear energy, as well as on mutual security guarantees.

For several years, the Russian Federation has been promoting an initiative to develop a concept of collective security in the Persian Gulf, aimed at establishing lasting peace and fostering cooperative relations among all coastal states. We remain ready to continue making a constructive contribution to the settlement of the conflict and the resolution of existing differences in the Middle East through political and diplomatic means, including by creating conditions for joint efforts to achieve a sustainable settlement based on a balance of the legitimate interests of all countries in the region.

Mar. 20: Russian Foreign Ministry post

We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities in the Persian Gulf amid risks of further escalation.

The proposals outlined by Omani FM @badralbusaidi align with our vision of a balanced security architecture in the Middle East & the Persian Gulf.

Mar. 20: Russian Foreign Ministry statement

It is with a growing sense of concern that we are witnessing the expanding geography of the missile and bomb strikes by Israel and the United States in Iran. The US-Israeli coalition continues pouring fuel on the flames of the war they have unleashed in the Middle East, which could cause this war to spread even further.

On March 18, a bomb attack was carried out against the Iranian port of Bandar Anzali on the Caspian Sea. That major Caspian port is an important trade and logistics hub that is actively used in Russian-Iranian trade, including for food deliveries. The strike has affected the economic interests of Russia and the other Caspian states that maintain transport communications with Iran via that port.

The regional countries and the international community have always regarded the Caspian Sea as a safe zone of peace and cooperation. The aggressors’ reckless and irresponsible actions pose a threat of dragging Caspian states into an armed conflict.

We once again firmly call for the immediate cessation of hostilities and resuming efforts to achieve a political settlement of the situation in the Middle East, which is increasingly affecting neighbouring regions.

Mar. 20: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: Today and tomorrow, millions of Muslims are celebrating Eid al-Fitr to mark the end of the month of Ramadan. Does the Ministry have any message for Muslim communities in countries, especially those in the Middle East, who are facing hardship due to the ongoing conflict there?

A: The Middle East conflict continues to escalate and expand. It has not only dealt a blow to regional peace and stability, but also had a direct impact on energy, finance, trade and shipping worldwide. It undermines countries’ shared interests. History and reality have shown us time and again that the use of force is not a solution and armed conflicts will only create new hatred. Parties to the conflict need to cease military operations as soon as possible and prevent the situation from worsening. China will continue its mediation effort for an end to the fighting and for the early return of peace and stability to the Middle East...

Q: U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said yesterday that Washington might lift sanctions on Iranian oil that has already been shipped. How does the Foreign Ministry view the current situation in the global oil market, including the potential lifting of U.S. sanctions on Iran?

A: China is always against illicit unilateral sanctions. We are gravely concerned over the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. All parties should immediately stop military operations, avoid further escalation of the situation, and prevent regional turmoil from causing a greater impact on global economy. Energy security is of vital importance to world economy, and all parties have the responsibility to keep energy supply stable and unimpeded.

Mar. 20: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

The Middle East conflict continues to escalate and expand. History and reality have shown us time and again that the use of force is not a solution and armed conflicts will only create new hatred.

Parties to the conflict need to cease military operations as soon as possible and prevent the situation from worsening.

China will continue its mediation effort for an end to the fighting and for the early return of peace and stability to the #MiddleEast.

Mar. 20: Chinese Foreign Ministry statement

On March 20, 2026, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue met with Ambassador of Iran to China Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli. The two sides exchanged views on the current tense situation in the Middle East.

Mar. 20: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue met with Ambassador of Iran to China Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli. The two sides exchanged views on the current tensions in the Middle East.

Mar. 20: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi phone call with French official

On March 20, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs Wang Yi had a phone call with Diplomatic Adviser to the French President Emmanuel Bonne at the latter’s request to communicate on the situation in the Middle East.

Emmanuel Bonne briefed on France’s views regarding the current situation in the Middle East, including in Iran and Lebanon, stating that as major countries, both France and China support the United Nations, abide by international law, and advocate resolving differences through dialogue. The two sides should work together to de-escalate tensions, seek ways to restart negotiations, and make contributions to this end. France stands ready to strengthen communication and coordination with China on this issue to promote peace and stability in the Middle East at an early date.

Wang Yi elaborated on China’s position, stating that the current situation in the Middle East continues to deteriorate, with hostilities persisting and spilling over into wider regions, which not only undermines the stability of global energy supplies but also precipitates a severe humanitarian crisis. The use of force cannot solve problems, and unjust wars must not continue. Faced with this critical situation, China and France, as permanent members of the United Nations (UN) Security Council, should strengthen strategic communication and coordination, firmly uphold the UN Charter and international law, and prevent the world from reverting to the law of the jungle. The most urgent tasks are threefold: first, to contain the spread of conflict and prevent further involvement by other countries; second, for the international community to speak with one voice in calling for an immediate ceasefire and cessation of hostilities, while intensifying efforts to encourage peace talks; and third, for the United Nations and the Security Council to play their due role in promoting the early restoration of peace and stability in the region. Despite the difficulties, the correct path out of the crisis remains dialogue and negotiation. China and France should make joint efforts to this end.

Mar. 21: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Emmanuel Bonne, Diplomatic Adviser to the French President.

The current situation in the #MiddleEast is still deteriorating, with the conflict continuing to spread. Despite the difficulties, dialogue and negotiation remain the right path out of the crisis. #China and #France should work together toward this end.

Mar. 21: Russian Foreign Ministry statement

The US-Israeli tandem continues to carry out massive strikes against Iranian military and civilian targets, including—most alarmingly—nuclear facilities, without regard for civilian casualties or potential radiological or environmental consequences.

Notwithstanding the well-known allegations about obliteration of the Iranian nuclear programme by US air raids last June, the Natanz Nuclear Facility, which is under IAEA safeguards, was subjected to an air attack in the morning of March 21.

This constitutes a high-handed breach of international law, UN and IAEA charters, special resolutions of the UN General Assembly and the IAEA General Conference. The international community, including the UN and the IAEA, must give an unbiased and uncompromising assessment of these irresponsible actions that create risks of a catastrophe for the entire Middle East and are explicitly aimed at further undermining peace, stability, and security in the region.

Mar. 23: Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian post

The conflict in the #MiddleEast is still spreading and spilling over. If the conflict continues to expand and the situation once again escalates, the whole region will be plunged into chaos. Force will only lead to a vicious circle.

China strongly calls on parties to the conflict to immediately stop military operations, return to dialogue and negotiation, and not continue the war that should not have happened.

Mar. 23: Remarks at Chinese Foreign Ministry press conference

Q: U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday gave Iran 48 hours until 11:44 pm GMT today to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping, threatening to obliterate Iranian power plants if they do not. What’s the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s comment on this?

A: The conflict in the Middle East is still spreading and spilling over. If the conflict continues to expand and the situation once again escalates, the whole region will be plunged into chaos. Force will only lead to a vicious circle. China strongly calls on parties to the conflict to immediately stop military operations, return to dialogue and negotiation, and not continue the war that should not have happened...

Q: Is China already in talks with Southeast Asian countries such as the Philippines, Laos and Viet Nam on fertilizer supplies? How does China plan to help them address the fertilizer shortage problems? And has China already started shipping additional fertilizers to those countries?

A: The situation in the Middle East has dealt a blow to global energy and trade security. Relevant countries should immediately stop military operations and prevent the regional turmoil from causing a greater impact on global economic growth. On the specifics that you mentioned, I’d refer you to competent authorities...

Q: China has told Iran to ensure the safety of its assets and people in Iran. So has China specifically told Iran to ensure the safe passage of its ships and oil bound to China?

A: We once again call on parties to immediately stop military operations, avoid further escalation of the tense situation and prevent regional turmoil from causing greater damage to global economic growth. We are in communication with relevant parties to work for the deescalation of the situation.

Mar. 23: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi meeting with UK National Security Advisor Jonathan Powell 

On March 23, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs Wang Yi met with UK Prime Minister’s National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell in Beijing.

Wang Yi noted that Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s historic and successful visit to China this past January was widely commended by various sectors in both countries and the international community. This fully demonstrates that the development of a long-term and stable comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the UK is in line with the trend of the times and the aspiration of the people. It also shows that as long as the two sides work with each other in the same direction and engage in constructive communication, they can properly address challenges and issues and achieve mutual benefit and win-win results. The two sides should implement the common understandings reached by the leaders of the two countries, carry out exchanges at various levels, deepen cooperation across the board, effectively manage differences, and work for the steady growth of China-UK relations.

Jonathan Powell stated that the UK stands ready to work with China to implement the outcomes of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to China, strengthen communication and cooperation, and jointly develop a long-term and stable comprehensive strategic partnership.

The two sides also exchanged views on the situation in Iran and the Ukraine crisis. Wang Yi briefed on China’s objective and just position, noting that the spillover effects of the situation in Iran are widening, and the protraction of the conflict will only cause more damage and more severe consequences. What all parties need to do now is not to fuel the tensions, but to address the root causes and work together to bring the issue back to the track of political settlement through dialogue and negotiation.

Mar. 23: Chinese Special Envoy Zhai Jun remarks to press

On March 23, 2026, at the invitation of the China Public Diplomacy Association, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue attended a special briefing at the Linjia 7 Salon-Press Conference held at the Beijing International Club, where he engaged with Chinese and foreign media on the current Middle East situation and his recent shuttle visits.

Zhai Jun noted that the current situation in the Middle East is highly tense, with the protraction, escalation, and spillover of the conflict, drawing close attention from the international community. China believes that a ceasefire and an end to the hostilities is the most pressing task, dialogue and negotiation is the way out of conflict, and returning to the right track of abiding by international law and the basic norms of international relations is the fundamental solution. The cornerstone of China’s Middle East policy is to promote reconciliation and peace in the region. As a responsible major country and a sincere friend to countries in the region, China will maintain close communication with all relevant parties and make unremitting efforts to promote regional peace and stability. China’s mediation effort will not cease as long as the conflict continues. Zhai Jun also answered questions from the press on China’s Middle East policy, the protection of overseas Chinese citizens, and international energy security.

Mar. 23: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi

On March 23, a telephone conversation took place between Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi at the initiative of the Iranian side.

The ministers discussed the situation in the Persian Gulf, which has sharply deteriorated as a result of US and Israeli aggression. Sergey Lavrov underscored the categorical unacceptability of strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, including the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, noting that such actions pose serious risks to the safety of Russian personnel and carry the potential for severe environmental consequences across the region. Mutual concern was raised that the conflict provoked by Washington and Tel Aviv would expand to the Caspian Sea.

The Russian side stressed the urgent need to end hostilities immediately and transit toward a political and diplomatic resolution that would take into account the legitimate interests of all parties involved, with particular emphasis on Iran. Russia intends to maintain this position at the United Nations Security Council.

For his part, Abbas Araghchi expressed his gratitude to the Russian leadership for its substantial diplomatic and other forms of support extended to the Islamic Republic of Iran, including humanitarian assistance.

Mar. 23: Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov phone call with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty 

On March 23, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a telephone conversation with [Abdelatty] at the request of the Egyptian side.

The foreign ministers discussed the unprecedented escalation of the military-political situation in the Persian Gulf as a result of the United States and Israel’s aggression against Iran calling for putting an immediate end to hostilities in the region and stepping up collective political and diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions. Sergey Lavrov reiterated Russia’s willingness to provide comprehensive assistance in order to overcome existing differences in the Middle East by peaceful means, taking into account the interests of all regional states and avoiding any double standards.

The ministers also touched upon certain aspects of the Russian-Egyptian cooperation, including the schedule of upcoming bilateral engagements.