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Beijing. The Gaza Strip is burning, and the voices of powerful countries have also become louder on international forums. Meanwhile, in the open meeting of the United Nations Security Council on the Israel-Palestine issue, China once again clarified its diplomatic position and described a ‘long-lasting ceasefire’ in Gaza as an immediate global priority. China’s permanent representative to the UN, Fu Tsong, said Beijing welcomes the first phase of the recent ceasefire agreement, but both its duration and credibility are under serious question. He said that real peace in Gaza is still far away, while civilians continue to face fear, hunger and death.
Phu Thsong expressed grave concern to the Security Council that there have been more than 400 violations of the ceasefire agreement by Israel, and that these violations have resulted in the deaths of more than 300 civilians in Gaza. China’s message was clear: the ceasefire does not just mean a silencing of gunfire, but it has to be implemented honestly and in good faith. China called on all parties, but especially Israel, to strictly adhere to the terms of the ceasefire and work towards achieving a ‘real, durable and comprehensive ceasefire’.
Beijing is already taking a strong stance on the Gaza crisis in global forums. China is not only expressing concern over the humanitarian crisis, but is also indirectly raising questions on the strategic concessions being given to Israel by Western countries, especially America. This activism by China gives two signals that Beijing wants to increase its influence in international Middle East diplomacy, and is trying to exert global leadership pressure on the humanitarian tragedy arising from the destruction of Gaza.
There is still smoke in the sky of Gaza, there is still blood on the ground, but China’s message makes it clear that the stakes are now much higher on the diplomatic front. New lines of world politics are being written on the ashes of Gaza and China wants to establish itself as a decisive player in this new equation.
Phu Thsong said that the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains very serious, and there are still many obstacles to humanitarian access. China urges Israel to sincerely fulfill its responsibilities under international humanitarian law, open all border crossings, lift restrictions on humanitarian access, and ensure that humanitarian agencies such as the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East can provide assistance.
