Beijing/Islamabad: China on Wednesday said its joint mediation with Pakistan aims to create a window for talks between the United States and Iran, as the Middle East enters its fifth week of armed conflict.
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“The situation in the Middle East remains tense, which is not in the interest of any party,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters in Beijing. “The mediation efforts made by China, Pakistan, and other parties should be welcomed by all. We are willing to work with Pakistan to steer clear of disruptions, stop the fighting, and create a window for peace talks. The top priority is to start peace talks as soon as possible.”
On Tuesday, Pakistan and China proposed a Five-Point peace plan, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the start of peace talks, the security of non-military targets, protection of shipping lanes, and adherence to the UN Charter. The proposal followed a meeting in Beijing between Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
The initiative also emphasized “early and safe passage of civilian and commercial ships” and the restoration of normal maritime traffic, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz—a vital route for energy supplies to Asian nations. Iran currently controls the strait, permitting passage only to vessels from countries it considers “friendly.”
Pakistan is facilitating indirect talks between the US and Iran to end the conflict, as regional tensions have escalated since a joint Israel-US offensive against Iran on February 28, which reportedly caused more than 1,900 deaths, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf states hosting US forces, resulting in casualties, infrastructure damage, and disruptions to global markets and aviation.
At least 13 US servicemen have reportedly been killed during the ongoing hostilities, with dozens more wounded, underscoring the urgency of diplomatic efforts.
