Beijing, China – March 8, 2026
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi delivered a strong critique of ongoing military actions in West Asia during a high-profile press briefing on the sidelines of the National People’s Congress session, calling for an immediate end to hostilities and rejecting any return to “jungle law” in international relations.
Speaking to reporters in Beijing, Wang Yi emphasized that “power does not always mean right” and condemned attacks on Iran, describing the conflict as one that “should never have happened” and serves no one’s interests. He highlighted violations of international law, including strikes during negotiations and attempts at regime change, which he said lack public support and risk broader instability. Wang urged all parties to stop military operations without delay, return to dialogue, and oppose unilateral actions to prevent further escalation and spillover effects in the region.
The remarks come against the backdrop of intensified US and Israeli strikes on Iran that began in late February 2026, targeting military infrastructure, leadership, and capabilities. Reports indicate significant degradation of Iran’s navy, air force, and missile systems, with US President Donald Trump claiming the US has “decimated their whole evil empire” and eliminated much of Iran’s military leadership. Trump has demanded unconditional surrender while leaving open further escalation, stating the war is progressing “unbelievably” well but could extend beyond initial projections.
Despite the sharp rhetoric on the Middle East, Wang Yi struck a more optimistic note on US-China ties ahead of an anticipated summit between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping in Beijing, tentatively scheduled for late March or early April 2026. He described 2026 as a potential “landmark year” for bilateral relations, urging both sides to manage differences with sincerity, eliminate unnecessary disruptions, and foster stable, sustainable development through mutual respect. Preparatory talks, including potential meetings involving US Treasury and trade officials with Chinese counterparts, are expected soon to lay groundwork for discussions on trade, tariffs, and other issues.
In a separate but related appeal, Wang Yi called for closer coordination between China and India as major Global South powers. He urged the two nations to support each other’s upcoming BRICS presidencies over the next two years, stressing that joint leadership could deliver greater stability and fresh hope to developing countries worldwide. Wang underscored that mutual trust and cooperation benefit both Asian giants and the broader region, while division harms shared progress toward rejuvenation.
The briefing reflects Beijing’s balancing act: firmly opposing perceived US overreach in the Middle East while preserving channels for high-level engagement with Washington amid ongoing global uncertainties.
