In a world where facts and reality should shape our international relations, it is disheartening to witness China's unwavering support for Hamas, a designated Islamic terrorist organization responsible for countless horrible acts of violence and terror against innocent civilians. Recent events have exposed a concerning alignment between Beijing and Hamas, and it's high time the international community takes a closer look at the motivations and consequences of this relationship.
On October 7, 2023, a barbaric attack by Hamas resulted in the tragic loss of Israeli lives and the taking of hostages, an act deserving universal condemnation. However, China chose to side with Hamas, labeling Israel's response as "excessive retaliatory actions." This stance raises important questions about China's motives and the underlying strategy employed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
One plausible explanation lies in China's ambition to reshape the global order. During President Xi Jinping's recent visit to Russia, he outlined a vision for a multipolar world order that challenges the United States' position as the global leader. This strategy is built on the foundation of propaganda, with China consistently portraying itself as a responsible global force for peace and stability, while labeling the United States an imperialist warmonger.
China's vision for a multipolar world order presents a challenge to the traditional Western-led global order. This approach seeks to reduce the dominance of Western powers, particularly the United States, and elevate China's role on the world stage.
China's economic interests in the Middle East are pivotal in understanding its stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict. The region is not only a source of energy resources but also a significant trade partner. China has invested heavily in the region, making it a vital player in Middle Eastern affairs.
However, China's stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict must be understood within the broader geopolitical context. China has grown closer to Russia as their relations with Western countries deteriorate. Both countries have supported a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict, aligning with their broader aim of reducing U.S. influence in the Middle East.
China's involvement in the Middle East extends beyond the Israel-Hamas conflict. It has actively pursued mediation efforts between Israel and the Palestinian Arabs, hoping to position itself as a credible mediator. China values its partnerships in the Middle East, including its investments in Iran, known as the "Iran Experience," and its close ties with Iran. This engagement with Iran is driven by China's economic interests and the need for energy resources.
The broader context of China's alignment with nations such as Russia in certain international matters should be taken into account when analyzing its role in the Middle East. China's involvement in the region is shaped by its economic and geopolitical interests, and this can sometimes lead to positions that do not align with Western values and objectives.
In conclusion, China's stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict should be a matter of concern in the international arena. Its reluctance to explicitly condemn Hamas, coupled with its broader geopolitical ambitions, raises questions about its motivations and the consequences of its actions.
While China portrays itself as a responsible global force for peace and stability, its support for Hamas appears to be driven by strategic self-interest rather than a genuine concern for peace in the region. This stance aligns with China's efforts to challenge the traditional Western-led global order and reduce U.S. influence in the Middle East.
It's crucial for the international community to recognize this alliance for what it is and ensure that facts, not propaganda, guide global relationships. The implications of China's role in the Israel-Hamas conflict extend beyond the immediate crisis, impacting the balance of power in the region and the principles that shape international relations. The international community should carefully assess the role China plays in the Middle East and its support for organizations like Hamas, as it has far-reaching consequences for global stability and peace.
Erfan Fardis a counter-terrorism analyst and Middle East Studies researcher based in Washington, DC. He is in Middle Eastern regional security affairs with a particular focus on Iran, counter terrorism, IRGC, MOIS and ethnic conflicts in MENA. He graduated in International Security Studies (London M. University, UK), and in International Relations (CSU-LA). Erfan is a Jewish Kurd of Iran, and he is fluent in Persian, Kurdish, Arabic and English. / Follow him from this twitter account @EQFARD / The newly published book of Erfan Fard is: “The gruesome mullah” , which has been published in the USA. www.erfanfard.com