In a significant development, China and Russia have jointly expressed their commitment to work towards de-escalating tensions in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Zhai Jun, China’s special envoy to the Middle East, made this announcement following a meeting with Mikhail Bogdanov, the Russian president’s special representative for the Middle East and Africa, in Qatar. Both countries share the same stance on the Palestinian issue and are keen to play a positive role in establishing a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine.

Zhai emphasized that the root cause of the conflict lies in the failure to safeguard the Palestinian people's legitimate national rights. He stated that China and Russia are prepared to engage in communication and coordination to alleviate the situation and promote peace talks between Israel and Palestine. The ultimate objective is to achieve a comprehensive, just, and sustainable resolution to the Palestinian question at the earliest possible opportunity.

China's involvement in the Middle East has grown rapidly, as evidenced by its decision to send Zhai to mediate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. This move showcases China's ambition to emerge as a prominent player in the region and establish its influence amidst shifting global dynamics. While China opposes attacks on civilians, it has refrained from condemning the initial Hamas attack that sparked the recent conflict. Instead, China has called for an immediate ceasefire to protect innocent lives in the face of Israel's airstrikes on Gaza.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry stressed the importance of objectivity and impartiality in dealing with international hotspots, particularly for major powers. Highlighting their deep concern for the escalating humanitarian crisis and civilian casualties, Zhai expressed China's sorrow over the situation. China regards Hamas as a resistance movement, distinguishing it from countries like Israel that label it as a terrorist group. Experts suggest that China's intent is to position itself as a mediator and exert its influence as the United States shifts its global focus elsewhere.

However, the recent Gaza war has brought the U.S. back into the forefront, with President Joe Biden traveling to Israel this week. In light of this, China is actively seeking to strengthen coordination with not only Russia but also other Middle Eastern countries to resolve the current crisis. China's consistent and fair stance on the Palestinian question has garnered appreciation from Arab nations. Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly conveyed to Chinese leader Xi Jinping the high regard Egypt and other Arab countries hold for China's position on the issue. These countries look to China to play a more significant role in resolving the crisis.

Xi emphasized the urgency of halting the fighting to prevent a severe humanitarian catastrophe, expressing China's willingness to collaborate with Egypt and other Arab nations towards a comprehensive and just resolution of the Palestinian question. China's dedication to promoting peace and stability in the Middle East is evident through its diplomatic efforts and commitment to finding a lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By working closely with Russia and other regional partners, China aims to bring about a peaceful and prosperous future for the region and advance its own interests in the process.