Why China is speaking out now
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on Israeli President Isaac Herzog to stop and reverse what he described as the forced establishment of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank during a bilateral meeting in Azerbaijan. Wang emphasized that resolving the Palestinian question remains central to regional stability and reiterated China’s longstanding position that the issue represents the greatest historical injustice of the century. The remarks were made public through a statement issued by China’s foreign ministry following the diplomatic encounter.
Wang told Herzog that China has consistently viewed the Palestinian cause as a core issue of international fairness and urged Israel to comply with international law regarding settlement activities. He stressed that unilateral actions altering the status quo in the West Bank undermine prospects for a two-state solution and violate multiple United Nations resolutions. The Chinese minister also reiterated Beijing’s support for the restoration of Palestinian legitimate rights through peaceful negotiations based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state.
What could happen if Israel ignores the call
China’s renewed criticism comes amid growing international concern over the expansion of Israeli settlements, which rights groups and UN bodies say contravene the Fourth Geneva Convention. Wang’s remarks align with broader calls from the Arab League, the European Union, and several UN special rapporteurs urging Israel to cease settlement construction. Analysts note that China’s timing may reflect its effort to position itself as a neutral mediator in Middle East affairs, especially as it deepens diplomatic ties with both Arab states and Israel. The meeting in Azerbaijan also covered broader regional cooperation, including infrastructure and energy projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.
If Israel continues its settlement expansion despite diplomatic pressure from China and other nations, it risks further isolating itself internationally and provoking stronger responses from global institutions. Continued construction could harden Palestinian resistance, increase violence in the occupied territories, and jeopardize any future peace negotiations. Conversely, a reversal—though currently unlikely under Israel’s current government—could open space for renewed dialogue and ease tensions that have flared repeatedly in recent years, particularly around Jerusalem and Hebron.
What did Wang Yi specifically ask Israel to do? Wang Yi urged Israel to stop and reverse the forced establishment of settlements in the West Bank, calling such actions a violation of international law and an obstacle to peace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does China consider the Palestinian issue the greatest injustice of the century? China views the prolonged displacement and denial of self-determination to Palestinians as a profound historical injustice, a stance it has maintained consistently in foreign policy for decades.
Does China recognize Israel as a state? Yes, China established diplomatic relations with Israel in 1992 and maintains official ties, though it also supports Palestinian statehood and advocates for a two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders.