As an unprecedented Israeli attack on Iran last week sparks a spiraling conflict between the two enemy states, China has seen an opportunity to cast itself as potential peace broker – and an alternative voice to the United States.

China has called on Iran and Israel to immediately take steps to reduce rising tensions after a deadly exchange of missile strikes. The warning came after Tehran launched a barrage of missiles and drones toward Israel over the weekend.

"China is highly concerned about Israel's attacks on Iran and deeply worried about the potential serious consequences of these actions," said Lin Jian, Chinese foreign ministry sp