KATHMANDU: China on Monday called for an immediate ceasefire and diplomatic dialogue to halt the rapidly escalating conflict in the Middle East.

The appeal comes as Israel and the United States continue strikes in Iran and Lebanon, with tensions spreading to neighboring countries.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, addressing a press conference, emphasized that ending military operations and preventing the further spread of the conflict are crucial, urging all parties to resolve disputes through negotiation.

Mao confirmed that a Chinese citizen has been killed in Tehran amid the violence, which follows U.S. and Israeli operations targeting Iran’s Supreme Leader.

The ministry has instructed the Chinese embassy in Iran to assist the victims and their families.

Beijing had warned its citizens last week against traveling to Iran due to the deteriorating security situation.

By Monday, over 3,000 Chinese nationals had evacuated the country.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have vowed to launch their “most violent” operations in history against Israel and the U.S., signaling a further escalation in the region.