China's Position on the Israeli Operation in Rafah

The Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed "deep concern" regarding the Israeli strikes on the city of Rafah in southern Gaza after recent Israeli shelling killed dozens in a camp for displaced persons in Rafah. During a press conference, spokesperson Mao Ning stated, "China expresses its deep concern about the ongoing Israeli military operations in Rafah." She urged "all parties to protect civilians and civilian facilities." She emphasized that "Israel is urged to listen to the calls of the international community and halt its attacks on Rafah." Beijing has been calling for an immediate ceasefire since the outbreak of the current war between Israel and Hamas in October of last year. Earlier, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for the convening of an "international peace conference" to resolve the conflict. The UN Security Council is scheduled to hold an emergency meeting today, Tuesday, to discuss the Israeli operations in the city of Rafah.