**Iran Promises to Protect Chinese Interests Amid US-Israel Attacks** A critical situation is unfolding in the Middle East, with the US and Israel launching a surprise attack on Iran. Amid this chaos, Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has assured his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, that his country will do everything in its power to safeguard the safety and security of Chinese citizens in Iran. In a call on Monday, Araghchi briefed senior members of China's central committee and Wang Yi on the situation in Iran. Tehran is currently defending itself against the US and Israeli aggression, and Araghchi emphasized that Iran has no choice but to protect itself. He expressed hope that Beijing would play a role in preventing further escalation of the conflict in the region. This assurance comes at a time when China is maintaining close relations with Iran, despite the ongoing tensions. The two countries have a comprehensive strategic partnership, with China serving as a lifeline for the Iranian economy. In 2021, Iran and China signed a 25-year strategic agreement, which has strengthened their ties. In fact, more than 80 percent of Iran's shipped oil in 2025 went to China, making up about 13.5 percent of all the oil China imported by sea. The attack on Iran has significant implications for the region, and China has urged the US and Israel to immediately cease military actions to avoid further escalation of tensions. Wang Yi told Araghchi that China values its traditional friendship with Iran and supports Tehran in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, territorial integrity, and national dignity. China's position on the issue is clear: it wants to prevent the conflict from spreading to the entire Middle East region. As tensions continue to rise in the Middle East, it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold. However, one thing is clear: Iran is committed to protecting its interests and those of its allies, including China. The ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran may have been put on hold, but the situation on the ground is far from settled.