China Expresses Support for Iran’s Sovereignty and Condemns Assassination of Hamas Leader

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed China’s strong support for Iran in defending its “sovereignty, security, and national dignity” during a phone call with Iran’s Acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani on Sunday. The statement, released by China’s foreign ministry, underscores Beijing’s stance on the recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

In the call, Wang Yi reiterated China’s condemnation of the assassination, which took place on July 31, stating that the attack was a violation of Iran’s sovereignty and posed a threat to regional stability. The killing has sparked accusations from both Iran and Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist group, against Israel, which they allege carried out the covert strike. Israel, however, has neither claimed responsibility nor denied involvement in the incident.

The assassination of Haniyeh, a significant figure in Hamas, has intensified fears that the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip could escalate into a broader Middle Eastern conflict. In response, Iran has vowed to “harshly punish” Israel for the attack.

Wang Yi emphasized that the assassination had “directly undermined the Gaza cease-fire negotiation process and jeopardized regional peace and stability.” He reaffirmed China’s support for Iran in defending its sovereignty and maintaining regional stability, adding that China is prepared to maintain close communication with Iran during this critical period.

In a related development, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian nominated Abbas Araqchi as the new Foreign Minister on Sunday. Araqchi, who previously served as Iran’s chief negotiator in nuclear talks from 2013 to 2021, is expected to play a pivotal role in navigating Iran’s foreign relations amidst the current tensions.