Muslim and Arab ministers have urged for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza as they begin their visit to Beijing, the first stop on a five-country tour. The objective of the delegation is to negotiate an end to hostilities and allow humanitarian aid to reach the devastated Palestinian enclave.
The group comprises representatives from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, Indonesia, Palestine, and Organizations for Islamic Cooperation. They are applying pressure on the West to reject Israel’s justification of its actions against the Palestinians as self-defense.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud emphasized the urgent need to stop fighting and killings immediately and deliver humanitarian supplies to Gaza. The delegation aims to send a clear message of support for their cause.
Israel’s ambassador to Beijing, Irit Ben-Abba, expressed hope that there would be no ceasefire declaration from this visit, stating that it is not yet appropriate. She also called for discussions about the release of Hamas hostages. Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi affirmed Beijing’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian people’s just cause and their national rights.
China has repeatedly called for de-escalation between Israel and Palestine and advocated for a two-state solution for an independent Palestine. They aim to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and work towards a comprehensive, fair, and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue.
Zhai Jun, China’s special envoy for the Middle East, has been working with Israeli officials and Palestinian Authority representatives, as well as members of the Arab League and EU, discussing possible solutions including recognition of Palestine in the UN.
The ministers urge all parties involved in this conflict to come together with a sense of urgency if we are ever going to achieve peace in Gaza once again.