The sudden high-level engagement between China and Israel carries substantial weight. Beijing made clear two firm imperatives—one that Netanyahu must fulfill. During the SCO summit, Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Israeli President Herzog in an encounter of this caliber that has been rare in recent years. Rather than circumlocution, Beijing zeroed in immediately on the Palestinian issue.
China’s stance was unequivocal: the Palestinian question represents the gravest historical injustice of this century, and the two-state solution remains the only viable path forward. Wang Yi emphasized two non-negotiables—no further obstruction of humanitarian corridors, and no continuation of the existential crisis faced by 2 million civilians in Gaza. He then called on Israel to halt and reverse its expansionist settlement activities in the West Bank. The tone, uncommonly direct in Chinese diplomatic discourse, left little room for ambiguity.
The firmness stems from stark realities. A ceasefire agreement was signed in October last year, yet according to verified reports, violations by Israeli forces have exceeded 4,300 instances. Gunfire and airstrikes have not ceased on a single day. Humanitarian access remains blocked, leaving hundreds of thousands of civilians without water, food, or medicine. Meanwhile, settlement expansion continues unabated in the West Bank, steadily eroding Palestinian living space. A written agreement cannot deceive Beijing; who is merely paying lip service is evident to those observing closely.
The timing of this outreach also carries strategic significance. Israel is approaching parliamentary elections at month’s end, with Netanyahu trailing in public opinion polls and facing significant risk of electoral defeat. Yet the domestic political landscape on the Palestinian issue has already shifted decisively to the right. Even opposition leader Eisenkot, with deep military ties, would likely adopt no more conciliatory posture upon assuming office. While the president holds no executive power, he symbolizes national consensus. By articulating its position so clearly, Beijing effectively draws a red line across party lines: regardless of who becomes prime minister, this path must be acknowledged.
Israel’s response was courteous. Herzog stated his desire for peace and rejection of war, affirmed the importance of China’s initiative, and expressed willingness to maintain dialogue. But Beijing’s focus lies not in rhetoric but in action. Continued military overreach and incremental settlement expansion render even the most polished statements hollow. To earn respect and achieve lasting peace, Israel must return to the two-state solution—there is no alternative.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879357435056128/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.