Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun takes a question from a journalist at a press conference in Beijing, China January 7, 2025. PHOTO: REUTERS
China on Tuesday announced emergency humanitarian assistance for Iran, Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq, citing worsening humanitarian conditions amid ongoing regional conflict.
Speaking at a regular briefing in Beijing, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said the conflict had caused “excruciating humanitarian disasters” affecting people in Iran and other countries in the region.
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“China deeply sympathises with people in relevant countries and our hearts go out to them,” he said.
Lin added that China would continue efforts to promote peace and a ceasefire, facilitate the early restoration of regional stability, and prevent the humanitarian crisis from worsening.
Gulf Arab states are pressing the United States not to stop short in its campaign against Iran, urging it to neutralise Tehran’s ability to threaten the region’s oil lifeline, sources and diplomats told Reuters.
The push comes as Iran expands its retaliation, targeting US bases as well as airports, ports, oil facilities and commercial hubs across Gulf states, while also disrupting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — a key artery for global oil supplies.
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“There is a wide feeling across the Gulf that Iran has crossed every red line,” said Abdulaziz Sager, chairman of the Saudi-based Gulf Research Center.
As the conflict enters its third week, Gulf leaders fear that leaving Iran with military capabilities could allow it to repeatedly threaten regional stability and energy flows. However, they remain cautious about direct involvement, wary of triggering a wider war.
The White House said President Donald Trump was in close contact with regional partners, while Gulf states have so far avoided unilateral military action, favouring restraint amid rising tensions.
