ISTANBUL

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday condemned Israeli attacks on Iran's nuclear and military facilities that started early Friday and have continued since, and urged for a return to diplomacy.

Wang spoke over the phone separately with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar on Saturday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in separate readouts.

Wang, during his conversation with Araghchi, stressed Beijing's "clear condemnation" of "Israel's violation of Iran's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity," and expressed support to Tehran in "safeguarding its national sovereignty and legitimate rights."

Araghchi briefed Wang on the latest developments, denouncing nuclear facility attacks in particular and warning that these actions could "drag" the entire region into a "full-scale war."

Wang called Israel's actions a "violation" of the UN Charter and "the basic norms of international relations." He said the strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities set "a dangerous precedent that could have disastrous consequences."

Wang also urged countries with "influence over Israel to make concrete efforts to restore peace."

Araghchi, in turn, urged the global community to request Israel to stop its military operations.

Saar, during his call with Wang, also explained Israel's stance and views on the issue.

Wang, in response, expressed opposition to Israel's attacks on Iran, saying the tensions will affect all of the Middle East.

Wang said diplomatic means to solve the Iranian nuclear issue are not yet exhausted and that hope for a peaceful solution remains. He urged for returning to diplomatic means.