China calls killing of Iran’s Larijani, leaders ‘unacceptable’
The Hindu
China condemns killing of Iran's Larijani, urges halt to violence and calls for regional peace and humanitarian aid.
China condemned on Thursday (March 19, 2026) the killing of Iranian national security chief Ali Larijani by an Israeli air strike, calling it "unacceptable".
Beijing is a partner of Iran but has also criticised Tehran's strikes against Gulf states housing U.S. military bases.
Iran-Israel war: Follow LIVE updates on March 19, 2026
Larijani was the highest-profile Iranian killed since supreme leader Ali Khamenei and other senior figures died during a wave of U.S. and Israeli strikes when the war started on February 28.
"We have always opposed the use of force in international relations. The acts of killing Iranian state leaders and attacking civilian targets are even more unacceptable," China's Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian told a news conference when asked about Larijani's death.
"China urges the parties concerned to immediately cease military operations and prevent the regional situation from spiralling out of control", Mr. Lin said.
U.S. Intelligence warns that India-Pakistan relations pose nuclear conflict risks, despite recent de-escalation efforts by President Trump.
U.S. eases sanctions on Venezuela's oil, allowing sales to boost global supply amid rising prices during the Iran conflict.
U.S. considers troop deployments as Iran war escalates, evaluating options to secure oil passage and strengthen military operations.
Pakistan and Afghanistan agree to a temporary ceasefire for Eid celebrations amid escalating conflict and recent deadly strikes.
Iran threatens retaliation against Gulf energy facilities following U.S.-Israel strikes, escalating tensions in the region.
Iran arrests over 100 alleged monarchist and spy networks amid ongoing conflict, as authorities intensify crackdowns across the nation.
Indonesia arrests four military officers linked to an acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus, sparking calls for an independent investigation.
Sri Lanka's Minister Bimal Rathnayake announces support for Indian refugees, urging political sensitivity from Tamil Nadu and India.
Trump temporarily waives maritime law to lower energy costs amid rising gasoline prices from the Iran-Israel conflict.
Gideon Levy discusses Israel's militarism, the Palestinian question, and the challenges of achieving peace in West Asia.
Israel claims to have killed another top Iranian official as Iran's missile attacks near Tel Aviv leave two dead.
Test your knowledge with our daily quiz on significant events that occurred on March 18.
Iran's Foreign Minister asserts nuclear doctrine remains unchanged and advocates for a new protocol for the Strait of Hormuz post-war.