In response to the recent surge in violence triggered by Hamas’ attacks on Israel, China has underscored the urgent need for a resolution to the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasizing the unsustainability of the current impasse in the peace process. China’s stance remains firmly in favor of an independent Palestinian state.
A spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry issued a statement on Sunday, urging all parties involved to exercise restraint and immediately halt hostilities to prevent further deterioration of the situation. The statement posits that a fundamental and enduring solution to the recurring conflict between Palestine and Israel lies in the pursuit of a “two-state solution.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s declaration of being “at war” came in response to the barrage of over 3,000 missiles launched by Gaza Strip militants and their infiltration into southern Israeli territory early on Saturday. Tragically, this escalation in violence has resulted in casualties on both sides. Regrettably, peace talks addressing the Israeli-Palestinian issue have remained stagnant since 2014.
China, through its foreign ministry, called upon the international community to heighten its sense of urgency, increase investment in resolving the Palestinian issue, and actively promote the resumption of peace negotiations between Palestine and Israel. The Chinese government remains committed to collaborating with the global community in the relentless pursuit of a lasting and harmonious peace in the region.
China, as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, has exhibited growing engagement in matters concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, thereby augmenting its presence in the Middle East. Notably, in June, President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority conducted a visit to China, where he held discussions with President Xi Jinping. During this encounter, President Xi proposed the convening of an international peace conference dedicated to addressing the ongoing conflict.
The concept of a “two-state solution” dates back to 1937 when it was recommended by the Peel Commission, established by the British. Subsequently, in 1947, the United Nations proposed the notion of two separate and independent states for Israel and Palestine, coexisting peacefully. However, over the years, this vision has regrettably remained unrealized.
