Military action or sanctions will not help, China says on US-Iran war

The Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated on Friday that military action or sanctions will not help solve the conflict between the United States and Iran, warning such measures only escalate tensions and serve no party's interests.

Lin Jian, spokesperson for the ministry, made the remarks in response to the latest US pressure measures against Iran at a regular press briefing.

"Escalation benefits no side," said Lin.

"We urge settlement of the dispute via dialogue and negotiation." US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the US plans to launch what he described as "the most crushing economic operation ever taken" against any country providing a lifeline to Iran.

In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called it US "economic terrorism" and warned that it will threaten the global economy and the sovereignty of nations worldwide.

Read more: The Iran war shifts to economic battle: A growing quagmire for the US