China has called on Israel to halt the expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank and to address the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. During a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog at a conference in Azerbaijan, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized Beijing’s stance on the Palestinian issue as a significant historical injustice that requires a political resolution.
Wang stressed the need for immediate humanitarian access to Gaza, highlighting the dire conditions faced by its residents. He reiterated China’s willingness to collaborate with the international community to facilitate dialogue and pursue a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. China has long supported a two-state solution, advocating for an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, and has worked to promote Palestinian reconciliation and reduce Middle East tensions through diplomatic initiatives.
In response, President Herzog focused on bilateral relations and regional security concerns, particularly those involving Iran and its allies. He expressed Israel’s desire for peace but underscored the nation’s security priorities. The ongoing fragile situation in Gaza persists despite a ceasefire initiated in October 2025, with Israeli strikes, displacement, and humanitarian challenges continuing. Progress toward the next phase of the ceasefire agreement has been hindered by mutual accusations of violations by Israel and Hamas.
These discussions underscore the continued international efforts to address the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict, improve humanitarian conditions in Gaza, and revive diplomatic negotiations. Both China’s call for action and Israel’s emphasis on security reflect the complexities of achieving lasting peace in the region.