China, Pakistan propose five-point plan to ease Middle East tensions

The governments of China and Pakistan have jointly proposed a five-point initiative aimed at ending escalating hostilities in the Gulf and wider Middle East, amid growing fears of a deepening humanitarian crisis.

The proposal follows high-level talks in Beijing between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

Key elements of the proposal

In a statement from China’s Foreign Ministry, both countries emphasised the urgent need for dialogue and diplomacy, urging all parties to:

• Commit to peaceful negotiations and avoid the use or threat of force


• Adhere strictly to international humanitarian law


• Refrain from targeting civilian infrastructure such as energy facilities, power systems, and nuclear installations


• Protect commercial shipping, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz


• Respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iran and Gulf states

They also called for stronger multilateral cooperation under the United Nations framework.

Rising global concern

The proposal comes as tensions continue to escalate following months of intense conflict reportedly triggered by the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.

In response, Iran has launched retaliatory strikes targeting infrastructure across several Gulf states, including airports, oil facilities, residential areas and diplomatic missions—actions it maintains are legitimate military operations.

The United Nations has warned that the situation risks spiralling into a broader regional war with potentially global consequences.

Economic and humanitarian impact

International bodies such as the Food and Agriculture Organization have cautioned that the conflict is already disrupting global markets, with rising food prices expected to worsen if instability persists.

Meanwhile, Amnesty International has urged all sides to protect civilians and comply with international law, warning against unlawful and disproportionate attacks.

Widening conflict

The conflict, now affecting more than ten countries, continues to heighten fears over increasing civilian casualties and widespread destruction of critical infrastructure across the region.

China and Pakistan say their proposal is intended to provide a framework for de-escalation and pave the way for a negotiated resolution to the crisis.