Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for an urgent ceasefire in the Middle East, especially in light of the growing conflict between Israel and Iran. Speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin on June 19, Xi said stopping the violence is the first and most important step toward peace.
Xi’s statement comes at a time when tensions between Israel and Iran are at their highest point in years, with both countries launching attacks that have caused large-scale destruction and civilian casualties.
What Xi Jinping Said:
President Xi emphasized four key points in his message:
- Immediate ceasefire between the warring parties.
- Protect civilians, especially women and children.
- Return to dialogue and peace talks.
- Support international efforts, especially through the United Nations, to restore peace.
He said the world must not allow this war to continue, as it threatens the safety of millions and the stability of the entire region.
The Conflict: What’s Happening Between Israel and Iran?
The current conflict began on June 13, when Israel launched a major military operation called Operation Rising Lion. This included a wave of airstrikes on Iran, targeting its nuclear sites and military bases. Israeli fighter jets struck cities like Tehran, Arak, and Tabriz.
In response, Iran launched more than 150 missiles and 100 drones at Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv and Beersheba. A missile even struck near a major hospital, injuring dozens.
So far, the fighting has caused heavy damage:
- At least 639 people have died in Iran, including military leaders and nuclear scientists.
- In Israel, more than 240 civilians have been injured, many in residential areas hit by Iranian missiles.
- Hospitals, homes, and power stations have been damaged on both sides.
A Risk to the Whole Region
The fear is that this conflict could spread beyond Israel and Iran. Neighboring countries like Lebanon, Iraq, Syria, and the Gulf States are watching closely. If the fighting continues, there’s a real risk of dragging the entire Middle East into war.
Many countries have started evacuating their citizens from both Iran and Israel. Thousands of Chinese, Ukrainian, and Western nationals have already left the region.
What Are Other Countries Saying?
Alongside China, Russia also supports a ceasefire. President Putin and Xi Jinping both warned that military action will not solve the problem and could make things worse.
Meanwhile, the United States is still deciding how to respond. There is pressure on the U.S. to either support Israel more directly or help bring both sides to the negotiation table. So far, Washington has focused on diplomatic efforts, working with European countries to push for peace talks.
Why Xi’s Call Matters?
China has traditionally taken a back seat in Middle East politics, but Xi’s recent involvement shows that Beijing wants to play a bigger role in global peace efforts.
By speaking out now, Xi is sending a message to the world: Diplomacy must come before violence. He is urging the UN Security Council and all major powers to take action and push for peace.
Xi also warned that the world is entering a “new period of danger,” and the Middle East could be the tipping point.
Future Prospects
Even with international pressure, a ceasefire won’t be easy. Israel says it will continue military operations until Iran’s nuclear and military abilities are weakened. Iran, on the other hand, has shown no signs of backing down and still has powerful allies and weapons.
The next few weeks will be critical. If diplomacy fails, the world could see a much bigger and bloodier war unfold in the Middle East.
But if leaders act wisely—and soon—there’s still a chance for peace.
Conclusion:
President Xi’s call for an immediate ceasefire is a timely and important message. It reminds the world that peace is still possible—but only if global powers step up and make it happen.
