On January 4, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi took a telephone call from Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif.

Zarif stated Iran's position on the attack targeting the Iranian commander. He strongly condemned the flagrant action by the US and said it is bound to have serious consequences. Iran has sent a letter to the UN Secretary-General and hopes China can play an important role in preventing escalation of regional tensions.

Wang Yi said that the military adventurist act by the US goes against basic norms governing international relations and will aggravate tensions and turbulence in the region. China opposes the use of force in international relations. Military means will lead nowhere. Maximum pressure won't work either. China urges the US to seek resolutions through dialogue instead of abusing force. China will continue to uphold an objective and just position and play a constructive role in safeguarding peace and security in the Gulf region of the Middle East.