China affirms support for Iran, but warns against Yemen spillover

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi affirmed Beijing's backing for Iran during talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Beijing on Wednesday. Wang called for a political resolution to Iran's conflict with the US and cautioned against regional tensions spilling over into Yemen. He also urged the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible.

Araghchi visited China for the second time since the US launched airstrikes on Iran in late February, as Washington imposed more sanctions and threatened further measures against those allegedly supporting Tehran. The conflict is expected to be a key topic in an upcoming US-China summit. Wang stated Beijing's willingness to collaborate with Tehran to protect Iran's legitimate rights and interests, urging both parties to "remain rational" and return to their Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.

He encouraged Iran to engage in dialogue with Gulf countries on respecting territorial sovereignty and national security. The conflict is also threatening to escalate into Yemen, with fighting between the Houthis and Saudi-backed forces, disrupting shipping and increasing oil prices. Wang emphasized the need for regional diplomacy to prevent further spillover into Yemen.

Iran has expressed a desire to return to diplomatic channels for resolution while protecting its interests, emphasizing the validity of the Islamabad memorandum signed in June. China and Iran have a comprehensive strategic partnership since 2016, but Beijing has not promised military defense for Iran and its investment in Iran is limited due to various risks.