Iran Vows to Safeguard Chinese Nationals Amid US-Israel Conflict
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has assured China of Iran's commitment to protecting Chinese citizens within its borders amid ongoing hostilities with the United States and Israel. This pledge was made during a phone call with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi, as tensions escalate following a surprise attack by the US and Israel on Iran. The Iranian Foreign Ministry in Beijing released a statement emphasizing Iran's determination to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions.
The conversation between Araghchi and Wang Yi focused on the current situation in Iran, where Tehran is actively defending itself against what it perceives as acts of aggression. Araghchi expressed his hope that China could help prevent further escalation of the conflict. He highlighted that despite recent positive developments in negotiations between Washington and Tehran, the US had launched a war against Iran for the second time, complicating the diplomatic landscape.
The attack by the US and Israel came shortly after Oman’s foreign minister, Badr al-Busaidi, suggested that a peace deal between the US and Iran was within reach. This unexpected military action has heightened tensions in the region, prompting Iran to assert its right to self-defense. In response, China has called for an immediate cessation of military actions by the US and Israel to prevent the conflict from spreading across the Middle East.
China's relationship with Iran is characterized by a strong strategic partnership, underscored by a 25-year strategic agreement signed in 2021. This partnership includes economic cooperation, with China being a significant importer of Iranian oil. In 2025, over 80 percent of Iran's oil exports were shipped to China, accounting for 13.5 percent of China's total oil imports by sea. This economic interdependence positions China as a crucial ally for Iran, especially amid international sanctions that have isolated Tehran economically.
China's support for Iran extends beyond economic ties, as it has actively worked to integrate Iran into international organizations such as BRICS+ and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. These efforts aim to bolster Iran's standing on the global stage and challenge the Western-led international order. Ahmed Aboudouh, an associate fellow at Chatham House, noted that China serves as a vital economic lifeline for Iran, helping it navigate the challenges posed by international sanctions.
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, with concerns about the potential for the conflict to escalate further. China's diplomatic engagement with Iran and its calls for de-escalation highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region. The outcome of these tensions could have significant implications for regional stability and international relations.