A Chinese citizen has been killed in Tehran while more than 3,000 Chinese nationals have been evacuated from Iran, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said.

"We mourn the life lost and extend sincere sympathies to the bereaved," Mao told a regular press briefing on Monday.

"The Foreign Ministry has instructed the Chinese embassy in Iran to provide assistance to the individual involved and the family," she added.

China was not informed in advance about the US military action, the spokeswoman said, adding that Beijing and Moscow have urged the UN Security Council to hold an emergency meeting.

Mao also said Beijing stands ready to work with the international community to bring about peace and prevent war, and solve the problem through dialogue and negotiation.

She said the most pressing task is to immediately stop the military operations and prevent the escalation and spillover of conflicts.

"China expresses deep concern over the spillover effects of the conflict affecting neighboring countries," Mao said.

She said China believes the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of all Gulf countries should be fully respected. (Xinhua & agencies)



Edited by Edmond Fong