China urges dialogue as Trump halts Iran strikes; Türkiye pursues mediation

2026-03-24 - 09:40

China has stepped up its diplomatic push to end the escalating conflict in the Middle East, urging the United States, Israel, and Iran to return to negotiations. “A ceasefire and dialogue are the only way out,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian told reporters on Tuesday, expressing “grave concern” over the spillover effects that have undermined regional stability. His remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump announced a five‐day suspension of strikes on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure, citing what he described as “very good and productive” talks with Tehran. A temporary pause amid mistrust Iranian officials swiftly rejected the notion of any engagement, dismissing the claim as “fake news.” Meanwhile, Pakistani diplomatic sources indicated that a US delegation was expected in Islamabad to facilitate indirect discussions, though Tehran remains reluctant to hold direct talks with Washington due to deep mistrust. Iran has previously warned that any strikes on its energy assets would be met with retaliation targeting critical infrastructure belonging to Israel and US forces in the region. Energy lifelines under pressure The war, which began on February 28 with a joint US‐Israeli offensive, has already claimed more than 1,340 lives, including Iran’s former supreme leader. Tehran has responded with repeated drone and missile strikes against Israel and Gulf states hosting American military installations. The strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20 million barrels of oil pass daily, has been effectively disrupted since early March, driving up shipping costs and sending global energy prices higher. Türkiye’s pursuit of regional stability Amid the spiraling tensions, Türkiye has maintained active diplomatic engagement with all parties involved. Ankara has consistently advocated for restraint and warned that a full‐scale regional war would have catastrophic consequences. Turkish diplomatic channels remain open, with officials stressing that only a negotiated settlement can prevent further loss of life and safeguard the security of the wider region. As the conflict threatens to expand further, Türkiye continues to position itself as a key mediator committed to restoring calm.