Beijing calls for \u2018peace and stability\u2019 in the region amid escalating protests in Iran.<\/b>
\nChina has voiced opposition to the use of force in the Middle East as US President Donald Trump threatened to strike Iran over escalating protests there.
Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning on Monday said Beijing hoped Iran\u2019s government and its people would overcome \u201ccurrent difficulties\u201d and uphold stability in the country.
\u201cWe always oppose interference in other countries\u2019 internal affairs,\u201d she said at a press conference, responding to a question about Trump\u2019s threats to attack Iran.
\u201cThe sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected and [we] oppose the use or threat of force in international relations. We call on parties to act in ways conducive to peace and stability in the Middle East.\u201d
The protests in Iran started in December over rising inflation and soaring food prices but quickly broadened into widespread anti-government demonstrations. The Iranian government responded with a violent crackdown that has left over 500 people dead, according to rights groups.
Trump on Sunday indicated that he was considering a range of responses to the growing unrest, saying it appeared Iran had crossed his previously stated red line of protesters being killed.<\/p>\n