China urges US and Iran to choose peace and resolve disputes through dialogue

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Wednesday that the continuation of the conflict between the United States and Iran does not serve the common interests of the parties concerned or the international community. He made the remarks while responding to a question from reporters in Beijing regarding freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

"It is vital for parties to choose peace, resolve disputes through dialogue and negotiation, and restore peace and tranquillity to the Middle East and [Persian] Gulf region at an early date," Guo said, according to Mehr News Agency (MNA).

The statement comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran, with the Strait of Hormuz — a key waterway for global oil shipments — remaining a focal point of international concern over freedom of navigation. China, a major buyer of Iranian oil, has repeatedly called for de-escalation and diplomatic engagement between the two sides.

Beijing's position reflects its longstanding opposition to unilateral pressure and its preference for resolving international disputes through negotiation. The spokesperson did not announce any new diplomatic initiative or mediation effort in his remarks.

According to Mehr News, Guo's comments were made in response to a reporter's question about navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring international attention to the security of the strategic maritime route.