BEIJING: China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has deployed six warships to the Middle East in response to the escalating tensions between Israel and the Palestinian resistance group Hamas, according to media reports.
The fleet, including the Zibo, a Type 052D guided-missile destroyer, the frigate Jingzhou, and the integrated supply ship Qiandaohu, is part of the PLA’s 44th naval escort task force. These vessels are heading toward an undisclosed destination, Chinese state media reported.
Meanwhile, the United States has deployed its most advanced carrier, USS Gerald R Ford, along with a battle group, to the West Asia region. Washington is also providing military assistance to Israel, including A-10 Warthog and F-15E attack planes, along with the latest munitions, as the Israeli government, led by Benjamin Netanyahu, continues its brutalities in Gaza against innocent Palestinian civilians.
China’s Stance on Israel-Palestine Conflict
On October 19, Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated China’s longstanding support for the creation of a sovereign state of Palestine, emphasizing that this approach is fundamental to resolving the conflict. Jinping stressed the urgent need for a ceasefire to prevent the situation from further escalating and causing a severe humanitarian crisis in the region.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas erupted on October 7, following raids by Hamas fighters in southern Israel and the firing of hundreds of rockets. Hamas claimed these actions were retaliation for civilian and worshipper casualties in Jerusalem and the West Bank, as well as Israeli forces’ raids at Al-Aqsa Mosque.
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Since October 8, Israel has cut off food, water, and fuel supplies to the besieged Gaza Strip, home to 2.2 million people. Israeli airstrikes over the past two weeks have led to a tragic loss of life, with more than 4,300 casualties, including over 1,400 children, as reported by the Gaza Health Ministry.
