China and France agree to help de-escalate US-Israeli conflict with Iran
South China Morning Post
by Cao JiaxuanMarch 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
China and France have agreed to collaborate on efforts to de-escalate tensions between the United States and Israel with Iran. During talks with French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of maintaining international norms and resisting violations of international law. He stressed that major powers should not exploit military superiority to escalate conflicts, urging the world to avoid a "law of the jungle" approach.
Wang highlighted China's commitment to promoting de-escalation and finding a path to political resolution in the region. Barrot echoed this sentiment, noting France and China's shared responsibility as permanent members of the United Nations Security Council to safeguard international peace and security. Both ministers also discussed working with Gulf countries to reduce tensions and address underlying issues.
The agreement comes amid heightened regional tensions, with the US and Israel stepping up military operations against Iran-backed groups in Syria and elsewhere. However, neither France nor China was involved in these actions. The two nations' focus on diplomacy reflects their desire to prevent further escalation and maintain stability in the Middle East and beyond.
This collaboration matters because it underscores the growing influence of China and France as global powers committed to multilateralism and conflict resolution. Their efforts could serve as a counterbalance to unilateral military actions, offering a pathway for dialogue and cooperation among nations. By working together, they aim to prevent a broader regional conflagration and uphold international order based on mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
The talks also highlight China's increasing role in Middle Eastern diplomacy, reflecting its broader strategy to expand influence in global hotspots. As tensions persist between the US
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 3/3/2026