As an unprecedented Israeli attack on Iran last week sparks a spiraling conflict between the two enemy states, China has seen an opportunity to cast itself as potential peace broker – and an alternative voice to the United States.

China has issued advisories to its citizens in Israel and Iran of the "complex and severe" security situation in those countries on Friday, adding a warning to those in Israel to prepare for possible missile and drone attacks.

Amid escalating tensions following Israel's military strikes on Iran, analysts warn that China may retaliate against the U.S. through Iranian proxies, affecting Middle Eastern dynamics and international relations.