China and Pakistan announced a joint five-point initiative Tuesday aimed at ending the Middle East conflict, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the swift launch of peace negotiations between warring parties.
The diplomatic push emerged from a high-level meeting in Beijing between Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, as both nations seek to position themselves as mediators in the escalating regional crisis.
China and Pakistan support the relevant parties in initiating talks, with all parties committing to peaceful resolution of disputes, and refraining from the use or the threat of use of force during peace talks
Pakistan Foreign Ministry statement
The initiative's first pillar demands an immediate halt to military operations and maximum efforts to prevent conflict expansion, while ensuring humanitarian assistance reaches all war-affected areas. The second point emphasizes protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iran and Gulf states, declaring dialogue and diplomacy as the only viable path forward.
Protection of civilian targets forms the third component, specifically calling for an end to attacks on energy infrastructure, desalination plants, and peaceful nuclear facilities. The plan explicitly demands adherence to international humanitarian law and the cessation of strikes against non-military objectives.
Frames the initiative as a constructive diplomatic effort by key regional partners. Emphasizes the collaborative nature of recent mediation attempts, including Turkey's participation in weekend talks with Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.