China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, has pledged support for Iran in protecting its security against external threats, reinforcing the alliance between the two nations.
This commitment was made during a meeting with Iran’s newly appointed President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate.
Wang Yi assured President Pezeshkian that China would remain a “trustworthy partner,” emphasizing that Beijing will continue to back Iran in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.
The Chinese foreign ministry released a statement on Wednesday, quoting Wang’s promise to oppose external interference in Iran’s internal affairs, including sanctions or pressure from other nations.
The meeting took place against a backdrop of increasing conflict in the region, with Israel launching additional strikes against Hezbollah, a Lebanese Shiite militant group backed by Iran.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified, with recent Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon resulting in significant casualties. Lebanese authorities reported that 558 people were killed in these strikes on Monday, marking the deadliest day since Lebanon’s civil war ended in 1990.
Iran, a key player in the Middle East, supports several armed groups in the region, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza, making it a central figure in the ongoing conflict. Israel views Iran as its primary adversary, further complicating the situation.
China, a longstanding ally of Iran and its largest trading partner, has continued to purchase Iranian oil despite international sanctions. Both China and Iran have faced increasing pressure from Western nations, particularly in light of their support for Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
