In a fervent appeal to the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday, Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the UN, urged immediate action to de-escalate the escalating tensions between Lebanon and Israel.
“The Security Council bears the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security,” Fu declared during the council’s briefing on the Lebanese-Israeli situation. He emphasized the necessity for the council to unite and make clear, unequivocal demands to address the crisis.
Fu outlined several urgent steps: “An immediate ceasefire must be established in Gaza; the de-escalation of the Lebanese-Israeli situation must be advanced to stop the cycle of violence; every effort must be made to prevent the spread of the fighting; and the parties concerned must return to the track of political and diplomatic solutions.”
Expressing deep concern, he warned that the current situation is “hanging by a thread.” Fu cautioned against any form of complacency, stating that “any passive procrastination would be irresponsible, and any rhetoric of condoning further military adventurism would send a wrong message and cause serious consequences.”
He called upon influential nations to “adopt a sincere and responsible attitude and earnestly play a constructive role to avoid further escalation of the situation.” Fu’s remarks highlight China’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region.
Addressing the humanitarian crisis unfolding, Fu noted that the conflict has led to unprecedented suffering, with Gaza described as “a hell on Earth.” He detailed the extensive destruction of civilian infrastructure, the loss of thousands of lives, and the displacement of over one million people in Lebanon.
The ambassador urged all parties to “respect the red lines of international humanitarian law and earnestly ensure the protection of civilians.” He also reiterated the importance of maintaining the neutrality of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon, stressing the need to safeguard UN peacekeepers. “UN assets and personnel should not be the target of armed attacks,” he stated emphatically.
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Chinese envoy urges actions to de-escalate Lebanese-Israeli situation
cgtn.com