China s top diplomat urges Iran toward peace talks

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on his Iranian counterpart to "start peace talks as soon as possible" during a phone call on Tuesday, which Beijing stated was requested by Tehran. U.S. President Donald Trump has mentioned that Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and others are leading discussions with Iran. A source from Iran told CNN on Tuesday that Tehran is open to hearing "sustainable" ideas to end the conflict. During his conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Wang emphasized that negotiations are "in the interests of the Iranian nation and its people, and reflect the broader desire of the international community." Wang urged "all parties" to "take every chance for peace and initiate talks as soon as possible," as reported by China's Foreign Ministry. For several weeks, China has been calling for an end to the violence and criticized the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran. It has also asked "all parties" to support a ceasefire and condemned "all indiscriminate attacks on civilians and nonmilitary targets," while not explicitly condemning Iran's military actions in response. Wang's remarks may indicate China's growing concern over the rising economic burdens from the conflict, which have disrupted global fuel markets and affected shipping and travel. China has been a significant economic and diplomatic ally for Tehran, but Iran's actions during the conflict—such as blocking the Strait of Hormuz and attacking Gulf nations—have complicated Beijing's diplomatic efforts and increased the economic risks for the world's largest oil importer. Araghchi informed Wang that Iran is "dedicated to achieving a comprehensive ceasefire rather than just a temporary truce," according to the Chinese statement. An Iranian statement regarding the call mentioned that Araghchi highlighted Iran’s "strong determination to defend its national sovereignty and territorial integrity," vowing to continue doing so until "the aggressors are made to regret their actions."