The escalating tensions in the Middle East have prompted China to call for an immediate halt to military operations, warning of a potential "vicious cycle" that could have far-reaching consequences. The Chinese government, through its special envoy to the Middle East, Zhai Jun, has urged all parties involved, particularly the US and Israel, to cease their military actions and work towards promoting regional peace and stability. Zhai Jun's shuttle-diplomacy trip included stops in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait, where he held meetings with key stakeholders. In a separate briefing, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized that the use of force would only lead to a "vicious cycle" and that the war should not have been started. Lin Jian cautioned that if hostilities continue to spread and intensify, the entire region will be plunged into chaos.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway that carries a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas, has been effectively closed by Iranian attacks, causing the worst oil crisis since the 1970s. US President Donald Trump has imposed a 48-hour deadline on Tehran to reopen the strait to all shipping, threatening to destroy Iranian power plants otherwise. Analysts have warned that a prolonged conflict could undermine global growth and weaken demand for Chinese exports. China, however, is better positioned to absorb higher oil prices, with coal accounting for about 60 per cent of its energy mix, ample oil stockpiles, and imports via the Strait of Hormuz, which represent only around five per cent of total energy consumption.
The Chinese government's call for an immediate halt to military operations in the Middle East is a timely reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked conflict. The US and Israel must take heed of China's warning and work towards a peaceful resolution to the crisis. A prolonged conflict would not only have far-reaching consequences for global growth but also undermine China's economic prospects, particularly its emerging market trading partners. The region's limited oil reserves and sensitivity to rising energy costs make them particularly vulnerable to the crisis. As the situation unfolds, it is crucial that all parties involved prioritize dialogue and diplomacy over military action to prevent a "vicious cycle" of escalating tensions.
