BEIJING – China is deeply concerned over the attacks on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and firmly opposes the moves that fuel tensions in the region, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.

The ministry's spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a daily press briefing when answering a query about the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Lin said China maintains that the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of countries in the Middle East and Gulf region should be earnestly respected and civilians and non-military targets should be protected.

It is imperative to achieve an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire and prevent further spread of the conflict, he said.