China on Monday said that Iran’s appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as its new supreme leader is an internal matter and warned against any attempt to target him, stressing respect for Iran’s sovereignty.
Beijing’s comments came after Israel issued threats against any successor to former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed more than a week ago during the initial phase of joint airstrikes by United States and Israel on Iranian targets.
Speaking at a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Iran’s decision to elevate Mojtaba Khamenei was taken in accordance with the country’s constitutional framework.
“Iran’s leadership transition is a domestic issue,” Guo said. “China opposes interference in the internal affairs of other countries under any pretext and believes that Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity must be respected.”
Tensions in the region remain high as Israel and the United States continue military operations against Iran, while Tehran has responded with repeated missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and Gulf states hosting US forces.
The escalating conflict has raised fears of a wider regional war, with international players calling for restraint amid mounting civilian and strategic risks.
