This was unexpected.
In a notable development, Chinese President Xi Jinping revised China’s official stance regarding the incidents occurring in Israel and the Gaza Strip. This shift came about in response to pressure exerted by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) on Monday.
In an updated statement delivered by a spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, China expressed its condemnation of “all acts of violence targeting civilians” and emphasized the pressing need to establish a ceasefire and restore peace in the region.
The decision to issue a stronger statement followed Schumer’s expression of dissatisfaction with an earlier statement issued by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which had only called for restraint.
Schumer stated, “I brought to President Xi’s attention the unfolding tragic events affecting Israel and stressed the importance of global solidarity against acts of violence, standing in support of the Israeli people.” He also directly requested that China’s Foreign Minister enhance their statement, which they subsequently did.
Previously, China’s foreign ministry had called upon all relevant parties to maintain composure, exercise restraint, and promptly cease hostilities to protect civilians and prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Schumer, however, believed that this statement fell short of the mark. During his meeting with Xi, he expressed his “deep disappointment” with China’s government for not issuing a stronger condemnation of the attacks that had targeted 22 Israeli towns, carried out by dangerous groups from Gaza.
“The recent events in Israel have been deeply distressing,” Schumer conveyed to Xi during their discussion. “I implore you and the people of China to stand in solidarity with the Israeli population and denounce these cowardly and brutal assaults.” He criticized China’s initial foreign ministry statement for lacking empathy or support for Israel during these tumultuous times.
Schumer, along with a delegation of six senators, engaged in an 80-minute meeting with President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday.
Additionally, the Democratic leader expressed his dissatisfaction to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi regarding China’s initial response to the attacks on Israeli civilians. Subsequently, a spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed deep sorrow over the civilian casualties resulting from the conflict between Palestine and Israel.