China has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran "across various fields" during talks to advance a Beijing-brokered detente between the two long-time foes.

At a meeting in the Saudi capital, senior diplomats from the three nations also collectively called for "an immediate end" to Israel's military operations in Gaza and Lebanon, according to a joint statement released by China's foreign ministry.

They also condemned Israeli "attacks and violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity" of Iran.
It came a day after Israel confirmed that its air attack on Iran last month hit part of Tehran's nuclear programme while degrading its defence and missile production capabilities, and amid ongoing concerns about a further escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

"The three parties believe that the continuing cycle of violence and escalation is a serious threat to the security of the region and the world, as well as to maritime security,"