China’s foreign ministry said on Monday that the Iran conflict killed one Chinese citizen in the capital, Tehran, while more than 3,000 were evacuated.

The ministry said China’s embassies and consulates in nearby countries swung into action to help the affected.

Attacks by the United States and Israel on Saturday killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, provoking retaliatory Iranian strikes on Israel and other Gulf countries hosting U.S. military bases.

The ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, told a regular press briefing that work groups set up by Chinese embassies and consulates in neighbouring countries will receive and assist those evacuated.

Ms Mao said China was not informed in advance about the U.S. military actions against Iran.

She denied a report that Iran and China were close to reaching a deal to buy supersonic anti-ship missiles, saying China was a responsible major power that “always fulfilled its international obligations.”

Ms Mao reiterated condemnation of the attacks and the killing of Mr Khameini. She urged all parties involved to immediately cease military action to prevent escalation.

“The sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of the Gulf states should be fully respected, and China backs efforts to strengthen communication among countries,” Ms Mao said.

The ministry spokesperson said China stands ready to work with the international community to encourage peace and prevent war and solve problems through dialogue and negotiation.

Jia Guide, China’s ambassador to the United Nations, told the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva that the attacks against Iran and the killing of the Iranian leader violated the principles of the UN Charter and the human rights of Iranians.

(Reuters/NAN)