Mao repeats China's view that US attack on Iran was illegal

Mao repeats China's view that US attack on Iran was illegal

China Condemns U.S.-Israeli Strikes on Iran as Violation of International Law

China has reiterated its stance that the recent U.S.-Israeli military strikes against Iran constitute a "grave violation" of international law and the UN Charter, according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning. The attacks, which occurred without prior United Nations Security Council (UNSC) authorization, have intensified regional tensions and raised concerns over further escalation. Mao emphasized that such actions undermine international norms and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities to prevent spillover effects across the Gulf.

The strikes, which resulted in the deaths of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and approximately 40 senior officials, prompted Iran to retaliate with drone and missile attacks targeting U.S. allies in the region, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait. The Global R2P organization noted that the U.S.-Israeli operations also struck civilian infrastructure, including a girls' school in southern Iran, killing over 165 people.

Beijing has expressed particular concern over the lack of diplomatic engagement preceding the strikes, with Mao stating that China was not informed of the operation beforehand. The Chinese government has consistently advocated for peaceful resolution mechanisms, urging all parties to prioritize sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Critics, including analysts like Bonnie Glaser, highlight that China's responses often remain rhetorical, with limited tangible support for Iran despite shared strategic interests. Meanwhile, international reactions have been polarized, with some European nations—Finland, Norway, and Spain—calling for adherence to international law, while others, including Germany, have deferred criticism of U.S. actions.

As the conflict escalates, the absence of UNSC consensus on the legality of force underscores broader challenges in enforcing global legal frameworks. For investors, prolonged instability in the Middle East risks disrupting energy markets and trade routes, with potential ripple effects on global economic growth.

Newsweek: Newsweek, Global R2P: Global R2P, NewsBreak: NewsBreak.