China strongly condemned the Israeli military's recent attack on UNIFIL, stressing the need for a full investigation and accountability. The spokesperson, Wu Qian, reiterated China's opposition to any attack on UN peacekeepers and urged all parties to ensure the safety of UNIFIL personnel and assets.
Concerns over attacks on UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon intensified on Monday after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu advised them to temporarily vacate areas where the military is engaging Hezbollah, the Associated Press reported.
Since Israeli forces began ground operations in Lebanon on Oct. 1, UNIFIL has been targeted 20 times, including direct gunfire and an incident involving two Israeli tanks breaching a UNIFIL base on Sunday, according to reports from the UN.
"Five peacekeepers have been injured in these incidents, including one who was shot," UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Monday. "The origin of the gunfire has yet to be confirmed."
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, held phone discussions with the foreign ministers of Iran and Israel on Monday.
Wang expressed deep concern over the growing conflict between Israel and Iran, stating that renewed violence benefits no one. Speaking with Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz, Wang emphasized that China, as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, supports peace, international law, and fairness. China, he said, will continue to contribute to reducing tensions and promoting peace in the region.
Wang also highlighted the importance of UNIFIL's peacekeeping mission, mandated by UN Security Council resolutions, and called on Israel to take tangible steps to safeguard the safety of its personnel.
During a separate call with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Wang stressed that the ongoing conflict in Gaza is escalating regional tensions, and its impact is spreading.
China has consistently advocated resolving conflicts through dialogue and consultation and opposes actions that worsen tensions, expand conflicts, or pursue military risks, Wang said, urging all parties to work toward peace and stability in the region.
