In a heated United Nations Security Council meeting on Saturday, China's permanent representative to the UN, Fu Cong, fervently called for an immediate, unconditional ceasefire in Gaza. Criticizing the Security Council's repeated failures to adopt measures due to a lone veto, Fu pointed to the United States as a major obstacle to peace.
"The roaring war machine continues unabated while the Security Council remains paralyzed," Fu declared. He emphasized that any further delay in action would only lead to more destruction and the loss of innocent lives. "A ceasefire is the critical precondition to saving lives and cannot be tied to any other issues," he stressed.
Fu urged all parties to remove barriers to humanitarian aid, highlighting the non-negotiable nature of international humanitarian law. "Israel must lift all restrictions on the entry of supplies and ensure the safe and extensive distribution of humanitarian aid across Gaza," he stated.
The Chinese envoy also warned against unilateral actions that could undermine the foundations of a two-state solution. "The future of Gaza must be decided by the Palestinian people themselves," he affirmed, rejecting any attempts to alter Gaza's demographics or territorial boundaries.
Expressing concern over the potential for a broader regional conflict, Fu called on Israel to refrain from provocations against neighboring countries such as Lebanon, Syria, and Iran. He also emphasized the importance of protecting UN peacekeeping forces in the region, who play a crucial role in maintaining stability.
Labeling the ongoing conflict as the "UN's most significant stress test in the Middle East," Fu stated that the Security Council's credibility is at stake. He criticized certain member states for obstructing action and urged them to "face up to their responsibilities" in pursuing peace.
"We urge certain countries to support the Security Council in employing all tools at its disposal and take further steps toward achieving an immediate ceasefire and restoring peace," Fu concluded.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
