Amidst the escalating conflict in Gaza, China has taken a proactive stance towards peace. Beijing’s special envoy, Zhai Jun, is currently touring the Middle East and has expressed deep concern about the intensifying situation in Gaza. In an official statement, China announced its willingness to do “whatever is conducive” to facilitate dialogue, secure a ceasefire, and restore peace in the region.
Zhai Jun, a seasoned diplomat, described the situation in Gaza as “very serious” and highlighted the worrisome potential of a large-scale ground conflict, along with the risk of armed conflicts spreading to neighboring countries. He participated in Sunday’s Cairo peace summit, where United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urgently called for action to end the ongoing crisis between Israel and Hamas, referring to it as a “godawful nightmare.”
The current conflict erupted on October 7 when Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel, resulting in the tragic loss of lives and the capture of hundreds of individuals. In response, Israel declared war on the besieged Gaza Strip, leading to relentless bombardment. Tragically, the conflict has claimed the lives of at least 4,651 Palestinians.
During the Cairo meeting, Zhai Jun advocated for an “immediate ceasefire and an end to the fighting as quickly as possible,” emphasizing China’s belief that resorting to violence will only perpetuate a vicious cycle of revenge. Despite China’s historically positive relations with Israel, the country remains steadfast in its support for the Palestinian cause.
As part of his diplomatic efforts, Zhai Jun has engaged in discussions with foreign ministers from various countries, including Palestine and Israel, as well as representatives from the United Nations and the European Union. China has pledged to continue its close communication with all parties involved in the international community.
Furthermore, China has taken concrete steps to provide humanitarian aid to Palestinians. The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt was opened to allow 17 trucks carrying essential medical aid, food, and water into the territory. This aid is a crucial lifeline for the 2.3 million people residing in Gaza, offering some relief amidst the dire circumstances.
China’s active involvement in seeking a peaceful resolution and providing humanitarian assistance underscores its commitment to stability in the Middle East. Stay tuned for further updates on this critical situation.
