以色列-加薩戰爭：中國的和平之路經受美國在中東主導地位的考驗

In recent events, the conflict between Israel and Gaza escalated, with the US and its allies expressing support for Israel and criticizing Hamas, the governing body in Gaza, for its actions. China, on the other hand, refrained from condemning Hamas or labeling it as a terrorist group, which led to criticism from Western countries. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi commented that Israel's military response exceeded self-defense measures and advocated for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and the protection of Palestinian rights. China's stance aligned with Arab nations on the issue of Palestine.

As the conflict intensified, Chinese President Xi Jinping communicated with Egypt's Prime Minister, expressing China's willingness to work with Egypt and other Arab nations towards a lasting resolution for the Palestinian situation. This could enhance China's influence in the Middle East, although it's unlikely to challenge the US's dominant role there. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with thousands of casualties and a shortage of essentials due to Israeli attacks, raises questions about China's impartiality as a mediator in the conflict.

China's involvement in the Middle East has expanded beyond economic interests, as evidenced by its role in brokering a peace agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran. China's support for Arab states in the conflict may bolster its influence in the region. However, the US remains a significant player in the Middle East, with President Biden's recent visit to Israel and ongoing diplomatic efforts. While China does not aim to contest US supremacy in the region, it seeks to assert its influence, particularly by leveraging its strategic relationships with Iran and Russia. Both the US and China aim for peace in the Middle East, but their approaches and levels of engagement differ, with the US maintaining strong ties with Israel and China focusing on economic partnerships and regional stability.