White House Dismisses China’s Diplomatic Role in Israel-Hamas Conflict Amid Attempted Credibility Push

The White House has rebuffed China’s recent diplomatic engagement in the Israel-Hamas conflict, asserting its comfort with existing relationships and American leadership in the region. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stated in an interview with VOA on Wednesday that the U.S. is confident in its ability to work through regional partners to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.

Chinese top diplomat Wang Yi has intensified peacemaking efforts in Gaza, advocating for an immediate cease-fire and increased humanitarian aid. This move is part of China’s broader attempt to position itself as a more credible peacemaker in the Middle East than the United States.

Wang Yi’s meetings in Beijing mark the first leg of a tour to the capitals of permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. The so-called Peace Committee, formed during the Nov. 11 Joint Arab-Islamic Extraordinary Summit, has convened in various global locations, including London and Moscow, with plans for meetings in Paris and Washington.

Wang Yi highlighted the decision to commence the tour in Beijing as evidence of the high level of trust in China. Arab officials praised China’s stance during the meeting, contrasting it with a disparaging view of Washington’s role.

China’s active involvement in the Israel-Hamas conflict follows its diplomatic efforts initiated in response to Hamas’ attack on Israel in October. China has positioned itself as a “friend to both Israel and Palestine,” calling for an international peace conference and emphasizing impartial conciliation and mediation. Chinese President Xi Jinping underscored the root cause of the conflict during a recent BRICS meeting, pointing to the long-ignored rights of the Palestinian people.

Beijing’s engagement in the Middle East aligns with its economic and energy security interests, given its significant role as a trading partner and the largest consumer of Saudi oil. However, experts also note China’s interest in undermining its strategic rival, the United States, by challenging American policy in the region.

While China promotes itself as an alternative to the U.S.-led order, its involvement lacks substantial security investments. Observers suggest that China’s power appears hollow in guaranteeing stability in the region. Unlike the U.S., China refrains from describing Hamas attacks as terrorism and criticizes Israeli retaliation as exceeding acceptable bounds under international humanitarian law.

Despite China’s diplomatic efforts, it was not involved in a recent deal brokered by the U.S. to secure a temporary cease-fire, demonstrating the limitations of China’s influence in the ongoing conflict. The Biden administration, actively engaged with Middle Eastern countries, has been leading efforts to increase humanitarian assistance and restore essential services in Gaza.