China urges restraint, calls for ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from Syria

UNITED NATIONS: Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and their spillover impact on Syria, China has called for urgent restraint and renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further instability in the region.

Speaking at a United Nations Security Council meeting on Wednesday, China’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Fu Cong, urged all relevant parties to seize the “window for peace,” exercise maximum restraint, and pursue political and diplomatic solutions to achieve a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire.

Fu stressed that the international community must act collectively to prevent the ongoing conflict in the Middle East from escalating further or spilling deeper into Syria, warning that such developments could severely undermine the country’s already fragile security and stability.

He emphasised the need for coordinated global efforts to support an inclusive political transition in Syria, stabilise the security environment, and address the worsening humanitarian situation.

Reaffirming key principles, Fu said that respecting Syria’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity must remain central to any resolution of the conflict.

He also criticised Israel’s military actions, stating that operations within the separation zone and strikes in southern Syria violate international law and must cease immediately. He called for adherence to the 1974 Disengagement Agreement and urged Israel to withdraw from Syrian territory without delay.

China, he added, stands ready to work with the international community to play a constructive role in advancing long-term peace and stability in Syria and restoring calm across the broader Middle East.