China, Pakistan condemn US attacks on Iran; Modi speaks to Iranian president

KATHMANDU: China has condemned the US attacks on Iran and the bombing of nuclear facilities under the safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

In a statement posted on the social media platform X, China’s Ministry of External Affairs said the US actions seriously violated the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law, and have exacerbated tensions in the Middle East. “China calls on the parties to the conflict, Israel in particular, to reach a ceasefire as soon as possible, ensure the safety of civilians, and start dialogue and negotiation,” the statement said.

It added that China is ready to work with the international community to pool efforts together and uphold justice, and work for restoring peace and stability in the Middle East.

Pakistan also condemned the US attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities. “We are gravely concerned at the possible further escalation of tensions in the region,” Pakistani foreign ministry said in a statement, hours after the US warplanes bombed three key nuclear sites in Iran. Pakistan also reiterated that these attacks violate “all norms of international law and that Iran has the legitimate right to defend itself under the UN Charter”.

Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with the Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and called for immediate de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy. He also expressed deep concern at the recent escalations. “We discussed in detail about the current situation. Expressed deep concern at the recent escalations,” Modi said in a X post.

While Modi fell short of condemning the attack, he called for the early restoration of regional peace, security and stability.