China’s Warships Arrive in Middle East in Routine Readiness
Hamas infiltrated Israel on October 7, swiftly taking control of many towns. In response, Israel declared war 50 years later, resulting in devastating losses for both sides, including thousands of civilians and soldiers. While Tel Aviv continues to bombard Gaza, preparations are underway for a ground operation. However, adverse weather conditions have caused a delay in the planned attack. Military experts anticipate that Israel may suffer heavy losses in such an operation.
Experts believe that the operation is likely to fail due to the challenges posed by Gaza’s narrow streets, high-rise buildings, and extensive underground tunnels. Another concern for Israel is Hezbollah, situated in the north of the country. If the operation commences, Hezbollah, with its support from Iran, might launch an attack on Iran, potentially escalating regional conflicts and even triggering a global war.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant recently visited Israel’s northern border, where he met with commanders and soldiers. Speaking at the Israel-Lebanon border, Gallant warned that Hezbollah had decided to join the war, emphasizing that Israel must be prepared for any possibility and that significant challenges lie ahead.
In response to the ongoing conflict, the United States deployed two aircraft carriers to the Middle East and ordered the deployment of 2000 soldiers in the region, although specific details on their assignment remain undisclosed. US President Joe Biden, during his recent visit to Israel, pledged unconditional support to Tel Aviv and plans to request assistance from the American Congress for Israel.
Amid the escalating tensions, China has dispatched six warships to the Middle East. The warships embarked on October 18 and arrived in Oman for a five-day exercise with the Omani navy. The Chinese Ministry of Defense considers this deployment a routine preparation and announced support for Egypt’s efforts to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Furthermore, China aims to play a more active role in the Middle East and has sent an envoy to the region to achieve a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Chinese Ambassador Zhai Jun has initiated his diplomatic efforts in Qatar and plans to tour the Middle East. During his visit, Jun met with his Russian counterpart and the Qatari Foreign Minister. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed their commitment to closely coordinate efforts for a political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and other crises in the Middle East and North Africa region.
China and Russia seek to counter the United States’ approach in the region and are engaging in diplomatic initiatives alongside hosting officials from the Middle East in their respective countries. Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted Egyptian Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouli in Beijing, emphasizing the priority of halting conflicts and preventing humanitarian crises.
As for the situation in Gaza, the operation initiated by Israel on October 7 has resulted in 4,385 deaths and 13,561 injuries.
In light of the ongoing conflict, it is crucial for diplomatic efforts to intensify, with hopes for a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to this devastating crisis.
