Beijing has expressed “deep concern” over Iran’s missile and drone attack on Israel, AFP quotes a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman as saying.

“China expresses deep concern over the current escalation and calls on relevant parties to exercise calm and restraint to prevent further escalations,” the unnamed spokesman said.

“China calls on the international community, especially countries with influence, to play a constructive role for the peace and stability of the region,” the foreign ministry spokesman said.

Beijing’s embassy in Tehran earlier advised Chinese nationals to “strengthen safety precautions” over the “local situation in Iran becoming more severe and complex”.