China calls for calm, restraint amid Israel's Jerusalem attacks

ANKARA

China called for calm as tensions peaked in occupied East Jerusalem on Monday after Israeli forces stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound and injured hundreds of Palestinians.

“We call for calm and restraint to avoid clashes that could result in further injuries,” Hua Chunying, spokesperson for China's Foreign Ministry, said at a news conference in the capital Beijing, according to public broadcaster CGTN.

“China is willing to play a constructive role in the resumption of peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians in line with UN resolutions along with relevant international parties.”

According to the Palestine Red Crescent, at least 305 people were injured as Israeli forces fired rubber-coated bullets, tear gas, and stun grenades at Palestinians who were on guard to prevent possible raids by extremist Jews.

The mosque is the world’s third-holiest site for Muslims. Jews call the area the “Temple Mount,” claiming it was the site of two Jewish temples in ancient times.

Israel occupied East Jerusalem during the 1967 Arab-Israeli war and annexed the entire city in 1980 – a move that has never been recognized by the international community.

Taiwan at World Health Assembly

Beijing also criticized the US for pushing for Taiwan’s participation at the World Health Assembly (WHA).

Last Friday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged the WHA to allow Taiwan to participate as an observer in its annual meeting later this month.

“Blinken’s call seriously violates the One China principle and US-China joint declarations. We condemn and reject this,” Hua said, terming the move “politically motivated.”