In a move reflecting the escalating tensions in the Middle East, China has issued an advisory to its citizens residing in Israel, urging them to buy tickets and prepare for a potential evacuation. This precautionary measure comes as the conflict between Israel and Hamas intensifies, raising concerns about the safety of foreign nationals in the region.
The Chinese embassy in Israel released a statement on its website, emphasizing the importance of safety and advising Chinese citizens to stay vigilant, avoid crowded places, and refrain from approaching conflict zones. The embassy also recommended that its nationals purchase return tickets to China as soon as possible, indicating the potential for a large-scale evacuation if the situation deteriorates further.
"We advise local Chinese nationals to fly back to China on commercial flights as soon as possible." China's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday,
While China's primary concern is the safety of its citizens, the nation has also been vocal about the ongoing conflict. China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, recently expressed his concerns during a conversation with his Saudi Arabian counterpart, Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. Wang stated that Israel's actions in Gaza have surpassed self-defense measures and called for an immediate halt to the collective punishment of Palestinian civilians. He emphasized the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law, ensuring the protection of innocent civilians.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, currently on a rapid tour of the Middle East, has also weighed in on the conflict. While acknowledging Israel's right to self-defense, Blinken urged the nation to uphold shared values of human life and dignity. He emphasized the need for Israel to take all necessary precautions to prevent civilian casualties.
The recent conflict was triggered by Hamas's most severe assault on Israel since the 1973 Yom Kippur War. In response, Israel launched extensive airstrikes on Gaza, leading to a significant number of casualties. The Israeli government also severed Gaza's access to essential resources, and civilians were instructed to evacuate northern Gaza in anticipation of a ground offensive targeting Hamas.
As global leaders seek solutions to prevent the Israel-Hamas conflict from escalating into a broader regional crisis, China's advisory to its citizens underscores the gravity of the situation. With the potential for further escalation, nations worldwide are closely monitoring developments, hoping for a swift resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of all affected parties.
