During a UN Security Council (UNSC) briefing on Monday, Chinese Ambassador Geng Shuang criticized the US for obstructing ceasefire initiatives in the ongoing Gaza conflict, now approaching its one-year mark.
Shuang, China’s deputy permanent representative to the UN, questioned the Security Council’s effectiveness in addressing the crisis, asking, “Why has it been unable to stop this human tragedy, the worst of its kind to this day?” His remarks, reported by Anadolu Agency, highlighted his concerns about the US’s role in blocking multiple ceasefire resolutions by consistently protecting Israel.
The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 41,200 Palestinian civilian deaths, according to local health authorities in Gaza. Shuang condemned the situation as “alarming” and “past belief,” emphasizing the urgent need for international intervention.
In June, the Security Council adopted a resolution supporting a three-phase ceasefire proposed by the US. Despite claims that Israel had accepted the proposal, Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the UN, reported no concrete signs from Israel of a commitment to a lasting ceasefire.
The conflict has escalated with Israel’s continued military operations targeting refugee camps in Gaza and the West Bank. Israeli settlers, operating with increasing protection from Israeli forces, have also contributed to the violence, particularly against Palestinians in the West Bank.
Shuang criticized the US for its inaction and urged it to leverage its influence to press Israel to cease military operations, aligning with previous council resolutions. He emphasized China’s support for further actions by the UNSC to address the humanitarian crisis and work towards peace in the region.
The ongoing Israeli blockade and military assault have led to severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies in Gaza, necessitating a comprehensive infrastructure overhaul and a political resolution.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit Egypt this week to discuss ceasefire efforts with Egyptian officials, aiming to secure hostages’ release and alleviate the suffering of Palestinians. State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller indicated that the US, in collaboration with Egypt and Qatar, is working on a revised proposal but did not provide a timeline for its public release.
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