Beijing: China on Monday condemned Israel for the violent targeting of journalists, noting that the country is mourning the killing of Palestinian reporters. Beijing's comments followed an Israeli airstrike that killed five Al Jazeera journalists, including Anas al-Sharif and Mohamed Qraiqea, who were staying in a tent near al-Shifa Hospital.

According to Anadolu Agency, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian expressed sorrow at a news conference, stating, "We mourn for the correspondents who tragically lost their lives in the conflict." Lin emphasized China's opposition to actions harming civilians and condemned violent acts targeting correspondents, as per an official transcript shared by the Foreign Ministry.

Lin further urged Israel to cease its military operations in Gaza immediately, resume full access to humanitarian supplies, and avoid a greater humanitarian crisis. He also called for de-escalation in the region.

The Gaza Media Office reported that the number of journalists killed since the start of Israel's genocide in Gaza on October 7, 2023, has risen to 237, following the killing of al-Sharif, Qraiqea, and three other reporters.

Israel is facing increasing condemnation for its actions in Gaza, where it has reportedly killed nearly 61,500 individuals since October 2023. The military campaign has severely affected the enclave, pushing it to the brink of famine.

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