China Warns War at “Critical Transition Stage” as Iran Ceasefire Nears Expiry

21/04/2026

ISLAMABAD, (AP), Apr 21: China has warned that the ongoing conflict linked to the Iran war is entering a “critical stage of transition between war and peace,” urging all parties to intensify diplomatic efforts as a fragile ceasefire nears its expiration on Wednesday.

In a statement on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the situation demands maximum restraint and renewed commitment to negotiations.

“The current situation is at a critical stage of transition between war and peace,” Guo said. “It is all the more necessary for all parties to show the utmost sincerity, remain committed to a political solution, maintain the momentum of the ceasefire and negotiations.”

The comments come as the two-week ceasefire in the Iran-related conflict approaches its deadline, raising concerns that hostilities could resume if diplomatic progress stalls.

China’s President Xi Jinping has also reportedly called for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy corridor that has been affected by recent tensions.

While Beijing is not directly involved in formal mediation, diplomats say China has quietly pushed for Iran to participate in earlier rounds of negotiations, positioning itself as a supporter of de-escalation efforts.

In a parallel development, Pakistan said China has expressed support for Islamabad’s efforts to facilitate dialogue between Washington and Tehran.

According to Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong conveyed Beijing’s position during a meeting with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad.

The ministry said both sides reviewed the latest regional developments and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the “all-weather” strategic partnership between Pakistan and China.

Dar emphasized the importance of continued high-level coordination, while both sides discussed ways to support regional stability amid rising geopolitical tensions.

As the ceasefire deadline approaches, diplomatic efforts are intensifying, with multiple regional players attempting to prevent a renewed escalation in the already volatile conflict.