At China Story Hub, we firmly believe that every classic Chinese ancient text is a cipher of civilization transcending time. Recently, a trending question on foreign platforms has sparked widespread discussion: "Why does China advocate peace and avoid war? Are Chinese people afraid of conflict?" The answer is deeply rooted in China’s five-thousand-year history and crystallized within the profound wisdom of
Zizhi Tongjian—a magnum opus of Chinese historiography.
The Chinese nation has never lacked the spirit of valor in warfare. From the pivotal Battle of Zhuolu that unified ancient tribes, to Huo Qubing’s legendary northern expedition marking victory over nomadic forces; from the Ming Dynasty’s resolute defense against Japanese pirates along the southeast coast, to the heroic stand in the Korean War that safeguarded national sovereignty—these historical feats demonstrate China’s martial prowess. However, through millennia of warfare, the Chinese people have embraced the philosophy that "true martiality lies in ending strife," a principle encapsulated by the warning in Zizhi Tongjian: "Even a powerful nation will perish if it thirsts for war." This timeless wisdom echoes across eras, offering profound insights into the nature of conflict.
Today, the Israel-Iran conflict that erupted on June 13, 2025, serves as a stark contemporary illustration of these ancient teachings. Leveraging its military superiority, Israel launched Operation "Lion’s Strength," a massive airstrike targeting Iran’s Natanz uranium enrichment facility, Revolutionary Guard headquarters, and other key sites, aiming to resolve the nuclear issue by force. Yet, the true cost of war quickly unfolds: Israel now spends $300 million daily on military operations, diverting funds urgently needed for social welfare, education, and healthcare. This financial strain risks stagnating domestic development, fueling public discontent, and exacerbating social tensions.
Moreover, the military campaign’s toll on civilians has drawn global condemnation. Arab and Islamic nations have voiced strong opposition, while anti-war sentiments have surged even within Israel’s ally, the United States. Senator Cain from the Democratic Party proposed a bill to limit the president’s war powers against Iran, emphasizing that armed conflict serves no American interests. As a result, Israel finds itself increasingly isolated in international discourse, eroding its moral standing and undermining long-term diplomatic strategies.
Iran, forced into self-defense, confronts a dire situation. Years of sanctions have already weakened its economy, and the war compounds this vulnerability. The continuous depletion of military resources, such as the loss of over 470 of its 2,500 ballistic missiles capable of reaching Israel, strains Iran’s defense capabilities. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes have devastated urban infrastructure, disrupting civilian life, endangering lives and property, and shattering social order. The conflict’s ripple effects extend far beyond the two nations: Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and other regional forces have joined the fray, escalating Middle Eastern tensions. With the Red Sea’s shipping routes at risk and the potential blockade of the Strait of Hormuz—a crucial artery for 13% of global oil supply—a global energy crisis looms, threatening severe economic turmoil worldwide.
China Story Hub’s collection of
Zizhi Tongjian preserves countless historical lessons mirroring today’s predicaments. During the Warring States period, Zhao’s frequent military adventures exhausted its strength; in the later reign of Emperor Wu of Han, excessive military expansion triggered popular unrest. These episodes underscore a timeless truth: military might may secure short-term victories, but sustainable peace demands more than brute force. As
Zizhi Tongjian advises, "Listening to diverse opinions leads to clarity; bias breeds blindness." In resolving international disputes, dialogue and negotiation offer the only viable path to mutual benefit.
The Chinese people understand peace’s preciousness, hard-won through generations of sacrifice. Classics like
Zizhi Tongjian and
Records of the Grand Historian not only chronicle China’s historical evolution but also distill millennia of governance wisdom, guiding principles for statecraft and personal conduct. In China Story Hub, we have combined the fully annotated and translated version for scholars and the vernacular version for the general public in our
Zizhi Tongjian, and we look forward to exploring the wisdom of the ancients and learning the power of peace and development together with you.
As history marches on, the wisdom of
Zizhi Tongjian remains ever-relevant. Amid the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict, revisiting these ancient teachings provides invaluable guidance. Join us at China Story Hub, unlock the timeless wisdom of
Zizhi Tongjian, and witness how Chinese civilization’s enduring commitment to peace can illuminate our shared path forward.
