The conflict between Israel and Iran has been raging for the past four days, increasing tensions in the Middle East. Meanwhile, China has voiced deep concern over Israel's airstrike on Iran.
China's foreign ministry has expressed alarm at the current tensions between Israel and Iran, labeling them as dangerous. China warns this situation could escalate regional discord, leading to severe consequences. Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun urged both parties to end this conflict swiftly and return to negotiation tables, stating that only through dialogue can instability be reduced and peace restored.
He emphasized that all sides should aim to resolve this conflict promptly, as it would otherwise exacerbate instability and tension in the region.
Reports suggest that the conflict between Israel and Iran has continued for four days. Israeli strikes have reportedly led to the death of over 220 Iranians, with more than 1,200 injured. Conversely, Iranian strikes have resulted in the reported deaths of 22 Israelis, with numerous injuries.
Israel and Iran, both Middle Eastern nations, currently find themselves at odds, yet there was a time when relations were amicable. Following Israel's founding on May 14, 1948, Iran recognized it as a nation in 1950.
In 1953, after a coup in Iran, the Shah's rule was reinstated, leading to a friendly bond between Iran and Israel. During Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi's reign, Iran provided ample oil supply to newly established Israel, a period when the country was not favored by other Gulf nations. In 1968, a pipeline agreement was established to transport oil from Iran to Israel. Throughout the 1980s, during Iran's war with Iraq, Israel supplied Iran with high-tech missiles and anti-tank guns.
The relationship between the two entered a decline post-1979, following Iran's Islamic Revolution that ended Shah's regime, ushering in Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as Supreme Leader. The revolution not only transformed Iran internally but also soured relations with Israel, turning a once moderate Iran into a radical Islamic state. This shift distanced Iran from countries like the USA and Saudi Arabia. The 1991 Gulf War further worsened the situation. Allegations arose against Iran for engaging in a proxy war against Israel, alongside its rhetoric branding Israel as the 'Little Satan' and the USA as the 'Great Satan'.
