United Nations, October 31 — China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Fu Cong, on Tuesday urged Israel to heed the international community’s calls for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and to halt what he described as collective punishment of the people living there.
Speaking at a UN Security Council session, Fu highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis resulting from more than eight months of conflict in Gaza. “The Gaza conflict has led to unprecedented destruction and a dire humanitarian disaster,” he stated. “There is an overwhelming international consensus demanding an immediate and lasting ceasefire, the release of all hostages, unimpeded humanitarian access, and the protection of humanitarian workers.”
Fu noted that despite multiple UN resolutions and a ceasefire initiative announced on May 31, there have been no concrete indications from Israel agreeing to implement a lasting ceasefire. “Israel continues major military operations, repeatedly attacking refugee camps across Gaza,” he said, emphasizing that these actions have caused massive civilian casualties and endangered humanitarian organizations.
The Chinese envoy called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. “An immediate ceasefire must be implemented, and once achieved, hostilities must not resume,” Fu asserted. He added that causing more civilian casualties is not the way for Israel to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Addressing the situation in the West Bank, Fu expressed concern over daily searches, arrests, and attacks against Palestinians by Israeli security forces. “China demands that Israel effectively curb its violence against Palestinian civilians and stop undermining the Palestinian National Authority,” he said, urging Israel to promptly return withheld tax revenues.
Fu reiterated China’s position on Israeli settlement activities, stating that they violate international law and UN Security Council Resolution 2334 and erode the prospects for a two-state solution. “Israel must immediately cease all settlement activities,” he insisted.
The Chinese envoy also expressed concern over escalating tensions in the Red Sea and along the Lebanese-Israeli border, calling on all parties to exercise restraint to prevent a broader regional conflict.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
