China calls for de-escalation as conflict between US and Iran resumes

China called on relevant parties to show restraint and safeguard the hard-won ceasefire in the Gulf region and refrain from escalating the conflict and harming innocent civilians on Tuesday.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian made the remarks following a resumed military conflict between the United States and Iran.

The US military carried out a third consecutive night of strikes against Iran on Monday as US President Donald Trump reinstated a blockade of Iranian shipping and proposed charging a 20 percent fee to guard the Strait of Hormuz.

China calls on all relevant parties to heed the strong aspiration of the international community and countries in the region for peace and stability, and prevent a resurgence of hostilities, Lin told a daily news conference.

Respecting the lawful rights and interests of the countries along the Strait of Hormuz and restoring normal and safe passage through the strait at an early date are the shared expectations of the international community, he said.

Relevant parties should work in the same direction and properly address the issue, he said, adding that China stands ready to continue making unremitting efforts to help de-escalate tensions and promote stability in the Middle East and the Gulf region.