Iran, China talk regional stability as West Asia grapples with widespread Israeli violence

September 23, 2024 - 21:29

TEHRAN – The senior advisor to Iran’s foreign minister sat down with the special envoy of the Chinese government for West Asian affairs on Monday. The two addressed pressing regional issues including Israel’s ongoing massacre in Gaza.

The meeting, held in Tehran, focused on the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where Ali Asqar Khaji condemned the "brutal attacks" by the Zionist regime, which he attributed to comprehensive support from the United States and certain Western nations. He called for urgent international intervention to halt what’s been termed by international bodies as a genocide against the Palestinian people. Khaji emphasized that the silence of international organizations has emboldened further military aggressions by Israel into Syria and Lebanon.

The discussion also touched on the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Syria. Khaji urged for active participation from the international community, including China, to aid in humanitarian efforts and reconstruction projects. He highlighted the dire need for assistance as the country continues to grapple with the aftermath of prolonged conflict.

On the topic of Yemen, Khaji criticized the illegal military actions by the United States and the UK, which have hindered peace efforts. He reaffirmed Iran's commitment to supporting peace negotiations, addressing the humanitarian crisis, and facilitating a Yemeni-led political dialogue.

China’s Zhai Jun echoed Khaji's sentiments, underscoring the necessity for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon as a primary objective for regional stability. He reiterated China's support for the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and expressed Beijing's readiness to engage actively in resolving the political and humanitarian crises in Syria.