China Intensifies Efforts to Mediate Gaza Conflict, Calls for Ceasefire

Amidst the escalating violence in Gaza, China has expressed readiness to promote dialogue and peace, offering to do "whatever is conducive" to achieving these outcomes, according to China's state media reports.

During his Middle-East tour, China’s special envoy to the region, Zhai Jun, voiced concerns about the potential for an expanded conflict. He noted in his remarks that the situation presented by the Gaza conflict was "very serious" and the fear of an extensive ground battle escalating, and affecting neighbouring nations, was "worrisome".

Zhai Jun participated in the Cairo peace summit on Sunday where United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged quick action in combating the "godawful nightmare" that the Israel-Hamas conflict has turned into.

In a call for peace, Zhai Jun urged for an "immediate ceasefire and an end to the fighting as soon as possible," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated. While recognizing China's good relations with Israel, it was noted that China had long been a supporter of the Palestinian cause.

As part of his diplomatic tour, the Chinese envoy has made efforts to facilitate the negotiation of a ceasefire and the safe passage of humanitarian supplies. He has engaged in discussions with representatives of the UN, the European Union, and foreign ministers from several countries, including Palestine and Israel.

China has committed to extending emergency aid to the Palestinians, both bilaterally and through the UN, stepping up efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crises. This past weekend, the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt was opened to allow supplies in.