China Slams Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Infrastructure

China has issued strong condemnation regarding the recent series of strikes conducted by U.S. and Israeli forces against Iranian military and nuclear-linked infrastructure. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that these attacks violate international legal norms.

During a regular briefing on Tuesday, Mao Ning asserted that the attacks severely damage the authority of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). She warned that they undermine global efforts to maintain the nuclear nonproliferation regime and could lead to serious consequences for peace and stability in the region.

Specific Attacks Detailed by IAEA

The recent military actions targeted several key Iranian sites late last week. These included the nuclear power facility in Bushehr, a yellowcake production site in Yazd province, and a heavy water facility located in Khondab, according to statements from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The IAEA confirmed that only the Bushehr site contained radioactive material, and importantly, no off-site release was detected. The agency renewed its call for all parties to exercise restraint to prevent any potential nuclear incident.

Violation of International Law and NPT Framework

Mao Ning further emphasized that targeting peaceful nuclear facilities monitored by the IAEA breaches the principles of the U.N. Charter, international law, and the Statute of the IAEA itself.

These remarks arrive just weeks before a scheduled NPT meeting where member states are set to review compliance with the treaty. China expressed readiness to collaborate with all involved parties to achieve a diplomatic resolution to the Iranian nuclear issue and uphold the nonproliferation framework.

Internal Debate in Iran Over NPT Exit

The ongoing conflict has intensified internal discussions within Iran regarding its continued involvement in the NPT. Ebrahim Rezaei, a spokesperson for the parliament's national security commission, noted the complexity of withdrawal.

Rezaei stated, "We are members of 60 international organizations and conventions, and now if we want to exit the NPT, we will probably face surprise and opposition from the West." Both the U.S. and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have cited preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons as the primary justification for the war, which began on February 28. Iran consistently denies pursuing a nuclear weapons program.

Disruption to Global Energy Trade

The conflict has also significantly impacted global energy markets, particularly through disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. This strait is a vital conduit, handling roughly a quarter of the world's seaborne oil.

Mao confirmed that three additional Chinese vessels had recently transited the strait. She called for an immediate cessation of hostilities to restore peace and stability in the Gulf region, stressing the strait's importance for international trade and energy flow.

Separately, on Tuesday, former President Trump urged nations experiencing fuel shortages due to the disruption to either secure supplies from the U.S. or to "build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just take it."