Beijing: China on Wednesday called on Israel to lift its siege on Gaza and facilitate humanitarian access, while reaffirming its support for an independent Palestinian state.

According to Anadolu Agency, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun addressed a news conference, stating that Beijing "opposes Israel escalating military operations in the region" and is "relatively concerned over the humanitarian disaster of the people in Gaza."

Guo highlighted the severity of the humanitarian situation in Gaza, emphasizing that the issue of Palestine is central to the Middle East conflict. He urged Israel to avert a broader humanitarian crisis and called for the cessation of military actions in Gaza. "We call on relevant parties, especially Israel, to immediately stop military operations in Gaza, lift the blockade and siege on Gaza, fully resume the access of humanitarian goods," Guo stated.

He further reiterated China's support for a two-state solution, describing it as the fundamental resolution to the Palestinian question. "China firmly supports the Palestinian people in establishing an independent state of Palestine," Guo added. He also assured that Beijing is prepared to collaborate with the international community to cease hostilities in Gaza, alleviate the humanitarian crisis, and implement the two-state solution.

The ongoing conflict has seen the Israeli army reject international ceasefire calls and continue its offensive on Gaza since October 7, 2023. The attacks have resulted in the deaths of over 60,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, and have devastated the enclave, causing severe food shortages.

In a related development, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice concerning its actions in the enclave.