Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call on Thursday to discuss the rising tensions between Iran and Israel. Both leaders emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire to prevent a broader regional conflict.
According to China’s official news agency Xinhua, Xi stated that “encouraging a ceasefire and halting hostilities is a top priority,” stressing that “military force is not the right path for resolving international disputes.”
The Kremlin reported that both leaders condemned Israel’s strikes on Iran, describing them as violations of the UN Charter and international law. They reiterated their rejection of any military solution to the crisis, including matters related to Iran’s nuclear program.
Putin reiterated Russia’s readiness to mediate between the parties, while Xi called on major powers — without naming the United States — to step up diplomatic efforts to defuse the situation.
Xi also urged the protection of civilians and the facilitation of evacuations for foreign nationals, warning of the potential for catastrophic consequences if the violence escalates.
In recent days, Putin has held talks with U.S. President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian, renewing his country’s offer to mediate — a proposal that has yet to receive formal acceptance.
Xi expressed his support for Russia’s initiative, saying it could help ease tensions, although this backing was not explicitly mentioned in China’s official statement.
The two leaders agreed to maintain close coordination going forward, as Beijing continues to expand its strategic and economic influence in the Middle East — notably through its supportive stance toward Tehran
