Sourced fact
The News
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of halting Israel's forced settlement construction in the West Bank, warning of the consequences of continuing such measures. During a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog on the sidelines of a conference in Azerbaijan, Wang stated that the Palestinian issue is "the darkest historical injustice of this century."
Wang pointed out that a two-state solution is the right path forward, while Herzog, in a tweet on X, expressed his pleasure at meeting Wang and noted that the discussions covered bilateral relations and the situation in the Middle East. Herzog added that he highlighted Israel's desire for peace in the region alongside the strategic threats it faces, particularly from Iran and its terrorist proxies.
China has been a longstanding supporter of the Palestinian cause and has worked to improve relations in the region, successfully mediating between Iran and Saudi Arabia in 2023. In 2024, China aimed to achieve Palestinian unity through a proposed transitional government in the West Bank and Gaza, but these efforts did not yield tangible results.
Wang stated that the current priority is to open up routes to Gaza completely and to halt the humanitarian disaster there. He also noted China's readiness to work with the international community to bring the parties closer together and achieve a political resolution to the conflict. Despite the end of heavy bombardment, Gaza's residents continue to live under constant threat from Israel, including nearly daily strikes. Since the ceasefire began in October 2025, more than 1,400 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli strikes. This situation poses significant challenges in implementing the next phase of the ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States.
Analysis & context
Analysis & Context
From an analytical perspective, China sees itself as a potential mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, especially after successfully resolving differences between Iran and Saudi Arabia. As the largest importer of Iranian oil, China aims to enhance its role in resolving regional disputes. In a broader context, Israel faces significant security challenges, particularly from Iran and Hamas in Gaza. China, through its call for a two-state solution, seeks to bolster its role as a key player in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
