Why it matters:
The high-level diplomatic contact demonstrates deepening coordination between Tehran and Beijing as the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran enters a critical phase, with China—a permanent UN Security Council member—explicitly supporting Iran's right to defend its sovereignty while condemning the attacks as unlawful.
The big picture:
In the aftermath of the strikes that martyred Iran's Leader and top commanders, killing hundreds of civilians including 171 schoolgirls in Minab, the international community faces a defining moment. China's position, aligned with Russia's at the UN Security Council reinforces Tehran's claim that it is the victim of unprovoked aggression.
What they're saying:
The Chinese foreign minister, on behalf of the government and people of China, offered condolences for the martyrdom of Ayatollah Khamenei in the U.S.-Israeli military aggression against Iran.
Araghchi briefed his Chinese counterpart on developments in Iran and the region following the U.S.-Israeli aggression, noting that Washington and Tel Aviv have "violated all norms and principles of international law" and martyred hundreds of innocent Iranian citizens. He specifically highlighted "the massacre of Iranian children and girls, including 171 young girls in a school in Minab city, as well as attacks on hospitals," calling on the international community to "decisively condemn the U.S.-Israeli military aggression and the killing of Iranian citizens."
Go deeper:
Iran's Security Chief: Tehran Ready For Long War, U.S. Is Not
ahmad shirzadian
