China opposes threat or use of force in international relations: spokesperson

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said Wednesday that China opposes using or threatening to use force in international relations, in commenting on reports that the United States is considering military options against Iran.

At a routine news briefing in Beijing, Mao Ning, the spokeswoman, reiterated China's position on the current situation in Iran after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to take "very strong action" against Iran if it executes protesters.

"We believe and hope that the Iranian government and people can overcome the current difficulties and maintain national stability. At the same time, we oppose any external interference in a country's internal affairs, and we do not approve of the threat or use of force in international relations. We hope that all parties can do more to contribute to peace and stability in the Middle East," Mao said.

Protests have erupted in several Iranian cities since late December over the sharp devaluation of the national currency, the rial, and long-standing economic hardships. The reported death toll from the unrest on both sides of the security forces and civilians is mounting.

China opposes threat or use of force in international relations: spokesperson

A Chinese mainland spokesperson has accused the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities of abusing judicial power to silence dissent after Taiwan regional internet influencer Chen Chih-han was indicted.

Zhu Fenglian, spokeswoman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, spoke at a press briefing on Wednesday in response to a question about the prosecution of Chen, better known as "Guan Zhang" or "gym boss."

The New Taipei district prosecutors alleged on January 8 that Chen, who runs a YouTube channel, knowingly used "inflammatory language" during a livestream despite being aware of the channel's large and diverse audience and the likelihood that his remarks would spread widely, according to media reports.

She said the case exposed political manipulation of the judicial system.

"The DPP authorities is abusing judicial means to intimidate and suppress the Taiwan people who support cross-Strait exchanges, attempting to create 'green terror' and restrict the freedom of the Taiwan public. In essence, this serves the separatist agenda and will inevitably face opposition and rejection," Zhu said.

Mainland spokesperson slams DPP authorities over prosecution of internet celebrity