ALBAWABA- China and Pakistan on Tuesday jointly proposed a five-point initiative aimed at ending the escalating US-Israel-Iran war and restoring stability in the Gulf and wider Middle East. The announcement comes as the conflict enters its second month with no clear resolution in sight.
The plan was unveiled following talks in Beijing between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. It calls for an immediate ceasefire, the launch of peace negotiations, protection for civilians, and security of maritime shipping routes, signaling a major escalation of China’s diplomatic involvement alongside Pakistan’s ongoing mediation efforts.
The initiative follows Pakistan’s recent hosting of a quadrilateral meeting in Islamabad with foreign ministers from Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, which focused on de-escalation and Pakistan’s offer to facilitate direct US-Iran talks. Officials described the talks as a coordinated regional push to prevent a wider conflict, highlighting Pakistan’s role as a neutral broker.
China’s involvement underscores Beijing’s growing interest in Gulf stability, particularly amid global energy concerns caused by US-Israeli assaults on Iran, disrupting shipping and oil flows. The joint statement emphasized that “dialogue and diplomacy are the only viable option” to resolve disputes.
Under the plan, China and Pakistan call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and full access for humanitarian aid to all affected areas. They urge the launch of peace talks as soon as possible, stressing that disputes must be resolved through dialogue while respecting the sovereignty, independence, and security of all states, including Iran and Gulf countries.
The plan also emphasizes protection for civilians and critical infrastructure, including energy, water, electricity, and nuclear facilities, in strict compliance with international humanitarian law.
In addition, the initiative highlights the security of maritime passages, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, calling for the safe and uninterrupted passage of commercial and civilian vessels. The proposal reinforces the importance of upholding the United Nations Charter, promoting multilateral diplomacy, and working toward a comprehensive framework for lasting peace based on international law.
The plan reflects a shared China-Pakistan strategy to counter unilateral U.S.-Israel military action through diplomacy, though its immediate impact is uncertain as hostilities continue.
