China calls for end to Middle East war, warns of economic consequences

BEIJING: China has urged an end to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, cautioning that the war carries significant economic repercussions, including rising energy costs, while stressing that armed confrontation would only deepen hostilities in the region.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, speaking at a press conference in Beijing on Thursday, emphasised that the continued violence would serve no constructive purpose.

"Armed conflict will only breed new hatred,"

the spokesperson said, reiterating Beijing's call for an immediate ceasefire amid growing concerns over the economic fallout of the conflict, particularly in the energy sector.

Beijing warns against prolonged hostilities

China's position comes as energy costs continue to climb amid instability in the Middle East, a region that remains a crucial hub for global oil and gas supplies. The Chinese foreign ministry underscored that the economic impact of the war extends well beyond the conflict zone, affecting international markets and supply chains.

China's foreign minister also weighed in on the situation, declaring that the conflict amounted to an injustice that should not be allowed to persist.

"Unjust war should not go [on],"

the foreign minister stated, signalling Beijing's firm stance on the need for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis.

Ceasefire calls amid energy concerns

The remarks from Chinese officials reflect Beijing's broader concern that the Middle East conflict is fuelling volatility in global energy markets. As one of the world's largest importers of oil, China has a direct stake in the stability of energy supply routes that pass through the region.

Beijing has consistently advocated for dialogue and negotiation as the path to resolving the crisis, positioning itself as a voice for de-escalation on the international stage. The latest statements reinforce China's diplomatic approach of calling on all parties involved to pursue peace rather than continued military action.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry's comments add to a growing chorus of international calls for a cessation of hostilities in the Middle East, where the humanitarian toll and economic disruptions have drawn widespread concern from governments and international organisations worldwide.