China Stands Firm on Palestinian Statehood
China has reaffirmed its support for an independent Palestinian state after U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that the United States should take control of Gaza. The controversial proposal has sparked widespread condemnation from global leaders.
Chen Xiaodong, China’s vice-minister for foreign affairs, met with ambassadors from Arab countries in Beijing on Friday. He stated that “Gaza belongs to Palestinians and is an inseparable part of Palestinian territory.” His remarks underscored China’s long-standing position on the Palestinian issue.
Beijing’s Message to the World
Chen emphasized that any decisions about Gaza’s future must respect the will of the Palestinian people. He reassured Arab leaders that China firmly supports Palestinian national rights and recognizes the Palestinian Authority’s jurisdiction over all territories, including Gaza and the West Bank.
“China will continue to work closely with Arab nations to promote peace and justice in the region,” he added. The meeting was reportedly held at the request of Arab states, demonstrating their trust in Beijing’s influence on international diplomacy.
Condemnation of Trump’s Proposal
Trump’s suggestion that the entire Palestinian population in Gaza should be displaced and that the U.S. should take over the territory has been met with severe criticism. Many world leaders and human rights groups have denounced the proposal as a form of ethnic cleansing.
Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia—key U.S. allies in the Middle East—rejected the idea outright. Jordanian and Egyptian officials warned that such a move would violate international law and destabilize the region.
The Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics estimates that Gaza is home to 2.1 million people. Forced displacement of this population would create an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.
China’s Position on Forced Displacement
Guo Jiakun, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, reiterated that Beijing strongly opposes forced displacement. He stated, “Gaza should never be used as a bargaining chip for political gains.”
China has consistently advocated for a two-state solution, arguing that it is the only sustainable path to lasting peace in the region. It has also condemned actions that escalate tensions and worsen humanitarian conditions.
Trump’s Conflicting Statements
Trump has sent mixed signals about his plans for Gaza. While he initially spoke about U.S. control over the enclave, he later described his idea as a “real estate transaction,” saying the U.S. would act as an “investor” in the region. He also claimed that there was “no rush to do anything” and that the issue had not yet been formally discussed.
Despite his attempt to downplay the proposal, global backlash has been swift. Critics argue that even the suggestion of forcibly removing Palestinians from Gaza violates international law and human rights conventions.
China’s Potential Role in Gaza’s Reconstruction
As the Israel-Gaza ceasefire continues to hold, China is positioning itself to play a role in rebuilding the war-ravaged territory. Given Beijing’s significant investments in global infrastructure projects, it may contribute to Gaza’s reconstruction efforts.
The recent conflict, which began in October 2023, has resulted in an estimated 47,000 Palestinian deaths. The destruction of homes, hospitals, and essential infrastructure has left Gaza in urgent need of rebuilding.
China’s diplomatic efforts align with its broader goal of strengthening ties with the Arab world and countering U.S. influence in the Middle East. Beijing has previously hosted Palestinian representatives and has actively engaged in discussions about Middle East peace initiatives.
A Divided Global Response
While Trump’s proposal has been met with strong opposition, his administration remains committed to reshaping U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. However, China’s vocal stance against forced displacement and its support for Palestinian statehood reinforce its role as a key player in the region’s future.
With international pressure mounting, the fate of Gaza remains uncertain. The coming weeks will determine whether global leaders can find a peaceful resolution that respects Palestinian sovereignty and prevents further humanitarian crises.