China's Defence Minister has launched a stinging critique of Israel's military campaign in Gaza, using a major international security forum in Beijing to demand an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomatic efforts.
General Zhang Youxia, China's highest-ranking military official, addressed the prestigious Xiangshan Forum, a conference often viewed as Beijing's answer to the Singapore-based Shangri-La Dialogue. His remarks represent one of China's most direct interventions into the ongoing conflict.
A Call for Restraint and Two-State Solution
General Zhang's address went beyond general appeals for peace, offering a clear rebuke of the scale of Israel's response to the October 7th Hamas attacks. "The use of force does not solve problems," he stated, "it only creates more hatred and strife."
He emphasised that Israel's actions had "gone beyond the scope of self-defence", urging the Israeli government to "stop the collective punishment of the people in Gaza." The Minister's language underscores a significant hardening of China's position.
China's Diplomatic Foray into Middle East Politics
This forceful commentary signals Beijing's ambition to position itself as a credible diplomatic player in the region, traditionally dominated by US influence. The speech advocated strongly for the two-state solution as the only viable path to lasting peace.
China has historically been sympathetic to the Palestinian cause, but its recent rhetoric suggests a more active and assertive role. By hosting this forum and delivering this message, China is projecting its vision for a new multipolar world order where it serves as a key mediator.
Context and International Reaction
The Xiangshan Forum brings together defence officials and scholars from across the globe, though Western representation is often limited. China's criticism of Israel stands in contrast to the stance of the United States and other Western allies, who have largely emphasised Israel's right to self-defence while recently calling for greater protection of civilians.
Analysts suggest that China's move is calculated to win favour across the Global South, where outrage over the civilian death toll in Gaza is widespread. This positioning allows China to contrast its approach with that of Washington, potentially undermining US leadership in the region.
