In response to the airstrikes on Lebanon, China on Thursday called on all relevant parties to remain calm and exercise restraint and to work toward de-escalating tensions in the region.

On Wednesday, Israel launched a large-scale airstrike targeting more than 100 locations across Lebanon within a 10-minute period.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Thursday, "Lebanon's sovereignty and security should not be violated, and the safety of civilians' lives and property must be safeguarded."

Since the outbreak of the conflict, China has maintained communication with various parties and has been actively working to promote peace and prevent further conflict, the spokeswoman told a daily news conference in Beijing.

zhangyunbi@chinadaily.com.cn