ISLAMABAD: Russia and China have strongly condemned the ongoing United States and Israel military campaign against Iran, describing it as a violation of international law, while calling for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
According to international media reports, the conflict has resulted in the deaths of more than 1,000 people and escalated tensions across the Middle East.
Russian President Vladimir Putin termed the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in an airstrike on Saturday a “cynical violation of all norms of human morals”.
Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged restraint during talks with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, stressing that “force cannot truly solve problems” and calling on all parties to avoid further escalation.
Russia and China jointly requested an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council to discuss the situation.
Analysts say the reaction reflects the close diplomatic and economic ties between Iran, Russia and China. Moscow and Beijing have strengthened cooperation with Tehran through bilateral agreements and joint military exercises, presenting a united front against what they describe as a US-led global order.
Earlier in January 2025, Russia and Iran signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty covering cooperation in trade, defence, intelligence, science, culture and education. The agreement also supports major infrastructure projects, including transport corridors linking Russia to the Persian Gulf through Iran.
The two countries conducted joint naval drills in the Indian Ocean in late February, shortly before the outbreak of the conflict.
However, experts note that the treaty does not include a mutual defence clause, meaning Russia is not legally obligated to intervene militarily if Iran is attacked.
According to Russian foreign policy analyst Andrey Kortunov, Moscow is unlikely to take direct military action because of the high risks involved and its current diplomatic priorities, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict.
He added that some officials in Tehran had expressed frustration, expecting Russia to offer stronger support beyond diplomatic efforts at the United Nations.
China’s relationship with Iran is largely driven by economic cooperation. In 2021, Beijing and Tehran signed a 25-year cooperation agreement focusing on energy, infrastructure and investment, integrating Iran into China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
Despite strong economic ties, analysts say Beijing is unlikely to provide military support, as China maintains a long-standing policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries.
Observers believe China will instead focus on diplomatic mediation and efforts to prevent further escalation that could threaten regional stability and global energy markets.
Experts note that China remains Iran’s largest oil customer, with vessel-tracking data showing that over 87 percent of Iran’s crude oil exports are shipped to China each year.