China is concerned about the security situation in Iraq, and supports the country to restore stability and order, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said on Friday.

Hua's comments came amid clashes between tribesmen, backed by security forces, and al-Qaida militants in Iraq's western province of Anbar. At least 10 al-Qaida militants were killed on Tuesday.

"We hope all parties in Iraq can strengthen unity, properly handle problems and reach stability," she told a daily news briefing.

A counter-terrorism force captured four al-Qaida leaders on Thursday morning along the borders of Anbar province, the Iraqiya state-run channel reported.