Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called for urgent steps to defuse rising tensions between Iran and Israel, warning that armed conflict would only deepen instability in the region. Speaking against a backdrop of escalating hostilities, Xi emphasized that “war is not the solution to any problem” and called on all sides to exercise restraint and prioritize diplomacy.
“All relevant parties must act responsibly and take concrete measures to reduce tensions without delay,” Xi said, according to Chinese state media.
Though he did not directly name Iran or Israel, Xi’s comments came amid heightened concerns of a broader regional conflict following a series of retaliatory attacks between the two nations. He reiterated China’s firm opposition to violations of any country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“China opposes all actions that compromise the sovereignty, dignity, and security of other nations,” he said.
China has consistently advocated for dialogue and multilateral diplomacy, urging the United Nations and major global players to help mediate and de-escalate the situation. Earlier this week, China’s Foreign Ministry called for an immediate ceasefire and appealed to all involved to uphold international law and maintain regional stability.
Xi Warns U.S. on Global Standing: ‘Empires Fall When They Stop Respecting Others’
In a separate and pointed message to the United States, President Xi Jinping cautioned that no global power is permanent and warned Washington against ignoring shifting geopolitical realities.
Without naming the U.S. directly, Xi drew historical parallels, referencing the fall of the British Empire. “Once, Britain dominated global trade and believed its influence was permanent. But time moved on, and history left it behind,” he said.
“The United States should reflect on this. No country is eternally indispensable,” Xi added, in remarks widely interpreted as a rebuke of America’s current foreign policy stance.
Xi’s comments underscore growing Chinese frustration over U.S. actions in areas ranging from trade and technology to regional security. He warned that a failure to respect other nations and international norms would ultimately backfire.
“A nation that does not respect others, in the end, sets the stage for its own decline,” Xi said. “Times change, and those who fail to adapt will be left behind.”
The Chinese leader’s remarks reflect Beijing’s broader message to the international community: global leadership must be earned through cooperation and mutual respect—not dominance.

