Question: It was reported that on September 15, when meeting with a delegation of US state legislators, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said that countries including China and Qatar are investing in AI technology and social platforms to launch a “media blockade” against Israel. What’s the Embassy’s comment?
Embassy Spokesperson: China is shocked by the remarks of the Israeli leader. The claim is groundless, undermines China-Israel relations, and is something that China is deeply concerned about and firmly opposed to.
By blaming the criticism on certain social media platforms and then pointing fingers at China, the Israeli side is like a patient desperately turning to any doctor, targeting the wrong source and, worse yet, being given the wrong prescription.
The international community has been closely following the situation in Gaza and hoping for an early ceasefire and end of fighting, which will also help bring back Israeli hostages safely and at an early date. We note that there have been many reflections in Israel that what the country needs is not a prolonged war but a lasting solution that brings peace. Solving Israel’s current plight requires political wisdom and creative diplomacy, not just military operations and endless bombings. The lopsided vote counts at the UN and other multilateral agencies on multiple Palestine-related issues have made clear the position of the majority of the international community.
A Chinese saying goes: “To stop the pot from boiling, remove the firewood rather than merely skim off the foam.” This highlights that to truly solve a problem, one must address its root cause instead of just easing its symptoms. The question of Palestine is at the heart of the problems in the Middle East. The security of countries in the region, including Israel and Palestine, is interdependent. The pursuit of security at the expense of others will not work; only common security can bring lasting peace and eliminate the breeding ground of violence and hatred. Israel’s legitimate security concerns should be respected, and Palestine’s right to existence, statehood and development should be upheld. Truth, justice and public opinion must not be defied. We urge Israel to heed the strong call of the international community, stop the military operations in Gaza, realize a full and lasting ceasefire as soon as possible, and prevent a greater humanitarian crisis. China sincerely hopes for the peaceful coexistence of all countries in the region, and for peace, stability and common prosperity in the region. China stands ready to work with the international community to play a constructive role in easing the situation.