China announces humanitarian aid for Iran and Lebanon amid peace push

BEIJING: China said on Wednesday it will provide humanitarian assistance to Iran and Lebanon as diplomatic efforts gather pace to bring the war involving the United States, Iran and Israel to an end.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said in Beijing that the government had decided to extend support after what he described as a humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict and its wider regional impact. He said the assistance is intended to help people in the two countries with recovery and reconstruction, and to support economic conditions and livelihoods.

Lin told reporters that China viewed the situation with deep concern. "China is deeply saddened by the humanitarian disaster caused by the Iran conflict and its spillover"

He added that Beijing had taken the decision after considering conditions in the affected countries. "Considering the real situation in the relevant countries, China has decided to offer humanitarian aid to Iran and Lebanon … to further assist the people there in recovery and reconstruction, as well as improving their economy and livelihood," he said.

The announcement marks the second time China has sent aid to Iran since the United States and Israel launched a war against Iran on Feb. 28. Beijing had previously dispatched assistance to Iran in March.

The move came as the United States and Iran agreed to an initial peace arrangement that was mediated by Pakistan. A signing ceremony is scheduled to be hosted by Islamabad on Friday in Switzerland.

Lin said China would remain engaged in regional diplomacy and continue backing efforts aimed at restoring calm. "As a good friend of Middle Eastern countries, China will continue to provide support, … will further make efforts for peace talks, and continue playing a positive role in restoring peace and tranquillity (in the Middle East) at an early date," he said.

The agreement also includes an end to Israeli attacks in Lebanon. Nearly 3,800 people have been killed there since the war began.