China reiterated its call for an immediate cease-fire and the protection of civilians, particularly in Israel, following Thursday’s attacks that claimed at least 112 lives and left over 700 injured among Palestinian aid-seekers in Gaza. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning urged all parties to ensure the accessibility of humanitarian aid, emphasizing the unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.
Mao called on the UN Security Council to take swift action to promote a cease-fire, expressing disappointment over the US blocking the UNSC from issuing a statement on the incident. She stressed the need for major countries involved to adopt a fair and responsible approach, playing a constructive role in achieving an immediate cease-fire. China pledged continued collaboration with the international community to push for responsible and meaningful actions at the UNSC, aiming to extinguish the flames of war, address the humanitarian crisis, advance the “two-state solution,” and foster long-term stability in the Middle East.
Humanitarian groups, including UNICEF, Doctors Without Borders, and Mercy Corp, condemned the killings in Gaza, where Israeli soldiers opened fire on a crowd of aid-seekers waiting for food. While acknowledging the Israeli soldiers’ role, the Israeli government spokesperson blamed Gazan truck drivers for contributing to the deaths, citing hit-and-runs and a stampede.
Analysts noted the severity of the humanitarian disaster in Gaza, emphasizing that international intervention is essential. Despite mounting pressure, Israel continues assaults in northern Gaza and persists in advancing plans to raid the southern city of Rafah. Observers warn that immediate action is crucial to prevent further erosion of Palestinian rights and the eventual collapse of prospects for a two-state solution.
The White House expressed deep concern, urging Israel to investigate the deaths and highlighting the complexity it adds to ceasefire negotiations. President Joe Biden emphasized the potential for a ceasefire if Hamas releases captives, though Chinese observers questioned the effectiveness of such a deal, pointing to the fragile nature of agreements and the U.S.’s perceived lack of genuine concern for Gazan civilians.
As the crisis continues, Chinese officials, including Chen Xu, China’s permanent representative to the UN Office in Geneva, reiterated calls for Israel to allow humanitarian organizations to conduct rescue missions in Gaza and adhere to interim measures and directives from the International Court of Justice.