China urges US, Israel to stop military action in Middle East, warns of 'vicious cycle' - Reuters

China has called on the United States and Israel to halt military operations in the Middle East, cautioning that continued hostilities risk creating a "vicious cycle" of escalating conflict. The statement reflects Beijing's growing concern over regional instability and its broader interests in Middle Eastern affairs, where China maintains significant economic and diplomatic ties. China's intervention in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and broader regional dynamics carries weight given its permanent UN Security Council seat and role as a major trading partner across the region. The appeal underscores deepening tensions between Washington and Beijing over Middle East policy, with China positioning itself as a counterweight to American influence. It remains unclear whether the statement signals potential Chinese diplomatic mediation efforts or is aimed primarily at shaping international public opinion on the conflict.