China highly concerned about Israeli airstrikes on Iran: spokesman

China is highly concerned about Israel's airstrikes on Iran and appeals to all parties to deescalate regional tensions, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said at a press briefing in Beijing on Friday.

Lin made the remarks in response to a press query on the Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets earlier Friday, as Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed in a statement that its jets have completed the first-stage attack, notably strikes on dozens of military targets, including nuclear targets in different areas of Iran.

"China is highly concerned about Israel's attacks on Iran and deeply worried about the grave consequences the relevant actions may bring. We oppose the violation of Iran's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity and oppose moves that fuel antagonism and escalate tensions. The abrupt escalation of regional situation is not in the interests of any party. We call on all parties involved to do things that are conducive to peace and stability in the region, and avoid further escalation of tensions. China stands ready to play a constructive role in deescalation efforts," Lin said.

China highly concerned about Israeli airstrikes on Iran: spokesman

China highly concerned about Israeli airstrikes on Iran: spokesman

China highly concerned about Israeli airstrikes on Iran: spokesman

China highly concerned about Israeli airstrikes on Iran: spokesman

Thousands of demonstrators rallied in Italy and Greece on Saturday to protest against U.S. military intervention in Venezuela, with protesters in Rome, Milan and Athens condemning Washington's actions and calling for respect for Venezuelan sovereignty.

In Rome, more than 1,000 demonstrators marched toward the area near the U.S. Embassy, calling on Washington to immediately release Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.

Police blocked roads around the embassy to prevent protesters from approaching the building, but demonstrators continued to denounce U.S. actions.

"First of all, we oppose U.S. imperialist aggression. This kind of behavior is shameful. The U.S. is attacking a sovereign country, and as [U.S. President Donald] Trump himself has said, this is for oil interests," said protester Giovanni Barbera.

Saturday's rally marked the second large-scale protest in Rome this month against U.S. military operations in Venezuela, following an earlier one on on Jan 3.

Participants included members of multiple political parties, labor unions and social organizations. The protesters held banners reading "Stop imperialist interference" and "Free Maduro," urging the international community to respect Venezuela's sovereignty and the will of its people, and condemning the U.S. for violating international law.

"We are protesting the way the U.S. handles international politics. Since the events of January 3, we have seen violations of international law, and we are very concerned about how the global situation is developing," said protester Stefano De Angelis.

Organizers said solidarity rallies in support of Venezuela were held in 30 Italian cities on the same day.

Meanwhile, similar protests were also staged in Greece. About 200 people gathered outside the U.S. Embassy in Athens, voicing support for Venezuela and opposition to U.S. military actions.

"We oppose U.S. imperialism and its attack on Venezuela. At the same time, the U.S. is also threatening Cuba, Mexico and Greenland. We must stand up against this behavior," said Greek protester Argiro Sirmakezi.

Protesters rally in Italy, Greece against U.S. military operation in Venezuela