China warns US-Iran war restart would hit global economy hard

China on Wednesday urged the United States and Iran to avoid any renewed conflict, warning that escalating hostilities in the Middle East would have severe consequences for the global economy.

Energy markets already disrupted

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian told reporters in Beijing that the current situation has already destabilized international energy markets, leading to supply gaps and economic pressure on numerous nations. "The key is to take all efforts to avoid the reignition of the flames of war," Lin said, adding that continued instability could trigger wider regional turmoil and undermine global development. He stressed that the fundamental solution lies in preventing further escalation and securing a comprehensive, long-term ceasefire.

Diplomatic engagement pledged

China vowed to remain diplomatically active, maintaining communication with all sides while working to protect stable international industrial and supply chains. The US and Israel launched a joint offensive against Iran on February 28, with Tehran striking what it called US interests across the Gulf region. A Pakistani-mediated ceasefire was announced on April 8, followed by talks in Islamabad on April 11-12, but those negotiations ended without a deal.

Truce extended but deadlock persists

US President Donald Trump later extended the truce at Pakistan’s request, pending a new Iranian proposal. However, Trump signaled on Monday that he is unlikely to accept Tehran's latest offer, which would reopen the Strait of Hormuz but postpone nuclear program discussions.