BEIJING, Oct. 9 (Xinhua) -- To end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, political will and diplomatic efforts, not weapons, ammunition and unilateral sanctions, are needed, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.
Spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a daily news briefing when asked to comment on the U.S. move of imposing sanctions on individuals and entities of third countries for funding Hamas on Monday, but providing 8.7 billion U.S. dollars worth of military aid to Israel at the end of September.
The Palestinian-Israeli conflict has been protracted for over a year, causing the death of over 40,000 people in Gaza, most of whom are women and children. The international community has agreed on the need to deescalate tensions, end the fighting and violence, protect civilians and avoid humanitarian disaster, Mao said.
"To end this conflict, we need political will and diplomatic efforts, not weapons, ammunition and unilateral sanctions," Mao said, adding that a major country needs to play its due role, be objective and just, take the lead in observing international law, and make positive efforts to end the fighting as soon as possible, put the situation under control and prevent spillover of the crisis.
It is also reported that Israel intends to retaliate significantly against Iran and could target oil production facilities, nuclear facilities and other strategic sites inside Iran. Iran said any attack from Israel will be met with a firm response.
Mao said China is deeply concerned over the turmoil in the Middle East. "We oppose moves that fuel antagonism and expand conflict, and call on all parties to handle the current situation with a calm, rational and responsible attitude in the interest of peace and stability in the region," she said.
The international community, especially major countries with influence, needs to play a constructive role to avoid further turmoil, the spokesperson noted. ■
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