Video: China demands Israeli troop withdrawal from Lebanon
Abdullateef Fowewe
China has condemned Israel’s military operations in Lebanon, calling for an immediate ceasefire and full withdrawal of Israeli forces to prevent the country from becoming “another Gaza.”
In a statement, a Chinese representative highlighted the human cost of the ongoing Israel-Hezbollah clashes, which have killed over 1,200 people since escalating on March 2, according to Lebanese health authorities.
The remarks came as Israel announced plans to expand ground operations in southern Lebanon.
“The ongoing exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah have plunged the people into a suffering war. Israel’s continuous escalation and military offensives have already killed over 1,200 people,” the representative said.
“The recent announcement by Israel to expand ground operations in Lebanon risks further prolonging an escalating conflict, which is cause for concern,” he added.
Beijing drew a parallel to the Gaza crisis: “Lebanon must not become another Gaza, and the international community must never allow the tragedy of Gaza to be repeated.”
He urged de-escalation and respect for Lebanese sovereignty, “China calls on parties concerned to immediately cease hostilities and work to de-escalate. Israel should immediately withdraw all its forces from Lebanon, respecting Lebanon’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.”
This came after widespread destruction in Beirut’s Jnah and Bir Hassan districts from overnight Israeli strikes.
