Power Play: China's Xi Urges Immediate Ceasefire in Israel-Hamas Conflict, Proposes Two-State Solution
China's President Xi Jinping calls for a swift resolution to the Israel-Hamas conflict, emphasizing the importance of a two-state solution for establishing an independent Palestine This marks his first public statement on the matter since the war began two weeks ago
Xi Jinping stated on Thursday that the key solution to resolve the Israel-Hamas conflict is the establishment of an independent Palestine through a two-state approach. This marks the Chinese leader's first public remarks on the ongoing war, which started almost two weeks ago. Emphasizing the utmost urgency, Xi highlighted the immediate necessity for a ceasefire to prevent the conflict from further escalation or spiraling out of control, which could potentially lead to a severe humanitarian crisis. According to China's state broadcaster CCTV, Xi Jinping's remarks underscore the paramount importance of resolving the current situation promptly.
In a meeting with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly in Beijing, Xi expressed China's readiness to collaborate with Egypt and other Arab nations in order to advance a comprehensive, fair, and enduring resolution to the Palestinian matter, as reported by CCTV. Madbouly visited Beijing to participate in the Belt and Road Forum, a significant event commemorating ten years of Xi's ambitious and contentious global infrastructure initiative.
Xi also commended Egypt for its significant contribution in easing tensions. He further expressed China's backing towards Egypt's endeavors to facilitate the entry of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, as reported by CCTV.
In a phone conversation on Wednesday, US President Joe Biden and his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah el-Sisi brokered a deal whereby Egypt agreed to permit the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza through the Rafah border crossing.
During his 7-hour visit to Israel on Wednesday, Biden successfully negotiated the deal—a crucial diplomatic mission aimed at demonstrating unwavering support for the American ally, while also advocating for restrained action in Gaza. However, it remains uncertain when the aid convoy will be permitted to enter Gaza, and the initial agreement for 20 trucks falls significantly short of the World Health Organization's recommended daily quantity of 100 trucks.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has intensified the divisions between world powers, following a brutal and coordinated terror attack by Hamas on October 7, resulting in the death of approximately 1,400 individuals. Local health authorities report that the subsequent bombardment and siege of Gaza by Israel has claimed the lives of around 3,500 Palestinians, including numerous children.
President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the war between Israel and Hamas after meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Wednesday, October 18, 2023, in Tel Aviv.
Evan Vucci/AP
Biden plans to use Oval Office address to make case for wartime aid to Israel and Ukraine
Hours before Biden's arrival in Israel, China's President Xi Jinping welcomed Russia's President Vladimir Putin as a distinguished guest at the Belt and Road Forum in Beijing. Putin was seated beside Xi and had the opportunity to address the audience after him during the opening ceremony. Following the ceremony, the leaders engaged in three hours of bilateral talks, where they focused on the Middle East conflict. Putin emphasized that this conflict posed a "shared threat" that fostered a stronger relationship between Russia and China.
China and Russia have urged for a ceasefire in the escalating conflict without explicitly denouncing Hamas. This stands in stark contrast to the widespread support for Israel from the United States and European leaders.
Israel expresses anger and profound disappointment towards Beijing's refusal to condemn Hamas, while US officials criticize China. Additionally, China's avoidance of condemning Putin's invasion of Ukraine has provoked anger in numerous European capitals.
With the escalation of Israel's war, Beijing has voiced even stronger support for the Palestinians. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently criticized Israel's actions, stating that they have exceeded the boundaries of self-defense. Despite this, China aims to position itself as a impartial mediator in the conflict.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry plans to dispatch Middle East Envoy Zhai Jun to the region this week. Zhai Jun's objective is to facilitate peace negotiations and advocate for a cessation of hostilities. Given China's substantial economic stake in both Russia and the Middle East, especially regarding oil and gas imports, safeguarding these interests is of paramount importance.
