China opposes use of force in Iran

Beijing voiced its opposition to "the use or threat of force in international relations" on Tuesday after the White House said the United States administration will not rule out military options against Iran if necessary.

The US Virtual Embassy Iran on Monday updated a travel warning urging US citizens to leave Iran immediately amid the unrest across the Middle East country.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Monday that the administration will not rule out military options if necessary, Xinhua reported.

In response, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters on Tuesday: "China hopes Iran will, and supports Iran to, maintain the country's stability."

"We have always opposed interference in other countries' internal affairs as well as the use or threat of force in international relations," she said.

China hopes various parties "will do more things that are conducive to peace and stability in the Middle East", she added.

"We are closely monitoring the developments in the situation in Iran," Mao said when asked if China still recommends its citizens travel to Iran. "We will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens."

zhangyunbi@chinadaily.com.cn