Arab states and China called for an immediate end to the war at a summit in Beijing, aiming to strengthen ties and stop the bombs in Gaza. Both sides pressed for a ceasefire, a stance that the United States opposed. This signaled a more fragmented global architecture and positioned Beijing as an alternative to the Western bloc. Foreign Minister Wang Yi reminded audiences that China is a good friend and brother to Arab and Muslim nations and has consistently supported the Palestinian people in pursuing their legitimate national rights and interests.
At the Diaoyutai state guesthouse, Wang addressed his Chinese colleagues and leaders from Palestine, Jordan, Indonesia, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. He serves as the secretary general of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and urged international action, noting the humanitarian disaster unfolding in Gaza. He called for urgent steps to cool the situation and restore peace in the Middle East as quickly as possible, emphasizing the need to prevent further tragedy. Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki accused Israel of erasing the Palestinian presence from their historic lands.
The delegation will remain in Beijing through tomorrow. This marks the first stage of a broader tour during which he will engage with members of the UN Security Council, seeking to persuade them that Israeli actions have surpassed its right to defend itself and that no international law supports the bombing of civilians.
Beijing distances itself from Israel
China presents itself as a convenient interlocutor whose stance aligns with the Arab world and stands in contrast to the United States. Beijing has reframed its approach to Israel, calling for a ceasefire without dwelling on broader changes. Washington continues to frame the crisis around a designated terrorist organization, Hamas, while underscoring Israel’s right to defend itself.
Even amid the crisis, Beijing pursues a peacemaker role after a lengthy pandemic pause. The efforts to bridge Saudi Arabia and Iran are notable, yet the same obstacles persist in Ukraine and Gaza. The year’s events reveal that even skilled negotiators face a lack of decisive political will from the parties involved. An Israeli perspective summarized by officials in Beijing cautions against premature calls for a ceasefire, prioritizing strategic objectives instead. Some reports suggest progress toward the release of more than 200 hostages may occur as ongoing negotiations, supported by regional actors, continue.
Last week the United Nations approved an initial resolution, though the United States and the United Kingdom abstained due to language gaps condemning Hamas. The resolution nevertheless urged the release of hostages and the opening of civilian corridors. Chinese officials described the action as a cautious first step, acknowledging persistent divisions within the Security Council. A senior Chinese diplomat highlighted that permanent members have repeatedly blocked stronger language, which limits the measure’s effectiveness but keeps a channel for dialogue open.
There was also talk of conversations between the leaders of the United States and China regarding the Gaza crisis, with Washington asking Beijing to mediate with Iran to prevent broader regional escalation. Both sides remarked on the delicate balance between urging restraint and acknowledging that regional dynamics require complex, multi-party engagement to prevent further violence.