Members of Iraqi Shiite Popular Mobilization Forces clean the rubble after a US airstrike in al-Qaim, Iraq, Feb 3, 2024. (PHOTO / AP)

BEIJING - China on Monday urged relevant parties to remain calm and exercise restraint after US military launching air strikes on targets within the territories of Syria and Iraq on Feb 3.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin made the remarks at a regular press briefing in response to a query concerning the strikes.

ALSO READ: Jordan denies participating in US airstrikes inside Iraq

It was reported that the air strikes were launched to retaliate after a previous drone attack which killed US troops based in Jordan. Both the Syrian and Iraqi governments expressed condemnation on the US infringement on their sovereign security.

READ MORE: US attacks in Syria, Iraq escalate regional tensions

Wang said Syria and Iraq are sovereign countries. China opposes any act that violates the UN Charter and infringes upon other countries' territorial sovereignty and security.

READ MORE: US starts retaliatory strikes on Iran-linked targets in Iraq, Syria

Noting that the current situation in the Middle East is highly complex and sensitive, Wang said China urges relevant parties to earnestly observe the international law, remain calm, exercise restraint, and prevent the tensions in the region from escalating or even spiraling out of control.