China's Cautious Optimism Amidst Fragile Truce in Gaza

Monday 27 November 2023 - 10:50

Beijing, November 27, 2023 - In a carefully measured response, China expressed a tempered sense of hope on Monday regarding recent developments between Israel and Hamas in the war-torn Gaza Strip. Despite acknowledging the small strides towards peace, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin highlighted their significance in the besieged Palestinian territory.

Speaking to reporters in Beijing, Wang underscored the importance of the truce agreement that has endured for three days, facilitating reciprocal releases of prisoners between Israel and Hamas. Israel's release of 117 Palestinians and Hamas's release of 40 Israelis and 18 foreigners marked tangible progress.

"Even in the face of incremental steps, positive encouragement is warranted," Wang remarked, as reported by the Global Times. "The challenges in safeguarding civilians must be surmounted, regardless of their magnitude."

These prisoner releases transpired within a four-day humanitarian pause brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. The pause follows over a month of intense clashes triggered by a cross-border attack by Hamas, prompting Israel to launch a substantial military offensive in Gaza on October 7th. The toll has been staggering, with health officials reporting nearly 15,000 Palestinians, including over 6,000 children, losing their lives.

China, currently holding the presidency of the UN Security Council, will see its Foreign Minister Wang Yi chair a high-level meeting on Wednesday in New York to address the ongoing conflict. Wang reassured that China remains committed to taking concrete actions and contributing meaningfully to the pursuit of peace.

While expressing optimism about recent developments, China exercised caution, recognizing the modest scale of progress in the context of the enduring humanitarian crisis. Wang emphasized the formidable challenges both sides face in safeguarding civilians, urging continued efforts towards lasting peace.