The United States and Israel should stop the destruction of Iranian historical and cultural heritage and sites, stated the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of China, Mao Ning.

"We [i.e. China] insist that the conflicting parties, especially the US and Israel, immediately and completely stop military operations," Mao stressed at a press briefing, as she commented on the destruction of historical sites in Iran, including those on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The MFA spokesperson noted that China is "deeply saddened" by the destruction of historical treasures during this conflict.

According to Mao, it is necessary to immediately stop hostilities, "to engage in dialogue and negotiations within a short period of time, and to end this war—which should not have happened—as soon as possible."