China has called for a de-escalation to prevent the spread of conflict in the region, especially to Israel, following the killing of Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrallah in Lebanon by Israeli airstrikes. A written statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that they opposed actions violating Lebanon’s sovereignty and security, escalating conflict and regional tension. The statement noted China’s close monitoring of the situation and expressed concern over the rising regional tensions, calling on all parties, particularly Israel, to immediately take measures to reduce the tensions and prevent the conflict from escalating and spiraling out of control. The statement emphasized the need for the prompt implementation of relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions to stop the attacks in Gaza and achieve peace and stability in the Middle East.

China’s Embassy in Beirut also warned of the deteriorating security situation in Lebanon due to escalating violence and airstrikes between Lebanon and Israel, which have resulted in casualties. The Embassy advised Chinese citizens not to travel to Lebanon, to leave immediately if already in the country, or to move to safe areas due to the security risks that may hinder the provision of assistance to those who remain in the country.

Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrallah was killed in Israeli airstrikes on Beirut on September 27. Following the killing of its leader, Hezbollah has responded with rocket and missile attacks, mostly targeting Israeli military installations, with no significant damage reported so far. The airstrikes carried out by Israel in Lebanon since September 23 have displaced nearly 150,000 people within the country. The influx of migration from the southern regions of the country to the capital Beirut and northwards, as well as tens of thousands of people fleeing to Syria, continues.