18 Jul. 24: In a significant diplomatic move, China is set to host senior officials from the Palestinian groups Hamas and Fatah for a meeting next week. This initiative is part of Beijing’s ongoing efforts to mediate between the Gaza-based Hamas and the West Bank-based Fatah Movement, led by President Mahmoud Abbas.
According to media reports, including a source from the New York Times cited by Iran’s IRNA, anonymous Palestinian officials confirmed the meeting. The two groups have long been rivals, and this meeting aims to bridge their differences. In April, China hosted an initial round of talks, with President Xi Jinping calling for a peace summit to address the conflict in Gaza.
Historically, China has supported the Palestinian cause and advocated for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Recently, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged the United States to back a UN resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza, condemning Israel’s actions in the region as “a tragedy for humanity and a disgrace to civilization.”
This latest meeting underscores China’s growing involvement in Middle Eastern diplomacy and its commitment to promoting peace in the region.