ISTANBUL

China on Tuesday urged “restraint” amid US military buildup as the Trump administration presses Iran to make a deal on its nuclear program.

“China is closely following the relevant situation. We urge all sides to remain restrained. The escalation of the situation serves no one’s interests,” Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters in Beijing.

Mao was responding to a question about US President Donald Trump’s remarks that he was considering a limited strike against Iran if Tehran does not forge a deal with Washington.

Delegations from Iran and the US are set to reconvene in Geneva, Switzerland on Thursday to resume discussions for a potential nuclear deal amid rising regional tensions and speculation of an imminent war.

The new round of talks comes amid an unprecedented US military buildup in the Persian Gulf and a series of military drills by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in recent days.

US President Donald Trump has warned of military action against Iran if a deal is not reached within 10 to 15 days.

Beijing’s statement also comes as US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Monday that Washington is “keeping all options open” in its approach to Iran while urging the country to negotiate a deal.

Speaking to reporters during a visit to Colorado, Hegseth reiterated that Trump prefers a diplomatic solution but noted that the US military is prepared with contingency plans if Iran refuses to reach an agreement.

When asked whether military strikes remain under consideration, Hegseth said: "Everything is on the table."

"It's the president's decision. We're here to help ensure that a deal is made. And I think Iran would be wise to make a good deal," he added.