China on Thursday called on all parties involved in the conflict related to Iran to cease military operations, warning of serious consequences for the global economy and energy security.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that the root cause of the Strait of Hormuz crisis lies in what she described as the “illegal military operation in Iran.”

Commenting on remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday, Mao stressed that military means cannot resolve conflicts and urged all sides to de-escalate and pursue diplomatic solutions.

The statement comes amid rising regional tensions and their direct impact on global shipping routes and energy supplies.