China Condemns U.S.-Israel Strikes on Iran Amid Nuclear Talks.

China has criticized the U.S. and Israel for carrying out military operations against Iran during ongoing nuclear negotiations, calling the actions a violation of international law and basic norms of international relations. The strikes, which occurred on Saturday, came just hours after Washington and Tehran engaged in talks mediated by Oman aimed at reviving a nuclear deal. The attacks also resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

In a press conference in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that Foreign Minister Wang Yi had held recent phone calls with counterparts from Russia, Iran, France, and Oman to explore ways to end the conflict. Ning emphasized that it is unacceptable for major powers to launch attacks during negotiations, target sovereign leaders, or seek regime change, calling for an immediate halt to the military operations and a return to dialogue.

China reiterated its support for Iran in defending its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national dignity. Ning stressed that major countries should not exploit military advantages to arbitrarily attack others and warned against a global return to the “law of the jungle.” She also noted that China will continue to play a constructive role and urged the international community to resist actions that violate fundamental international norms.