China firmly opposes and condemns the act of assassination: FM

(ECNS) -- China firmly opposes and condemns the act of assassination and is deeply concerned that the incident may plunge the region into greater turmoil, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular press conference on Thursday.

Lin made the remarks in response to the death of Hamas plitical chief Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in a strike in Teheran.

Gaza needs a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire as soon as possible and there should be no more escalation of the conflict and confrontation, he said. 

“China supports Palestine’s internal reconciliation and believes this is an important step towards solving the Palestinian question and realizing peace and stability in the Middle East. China commends Palestinian factions for their effort on the Beijing Declaration, and looks forward to the day when Palestinian factions achieve reconciliation and, on that basis, realize independent statehood as early as possible. We will continue to work with relevant parties towards this goal,” the spokesperson said.

The more daunting the situation is in the Middle East, the more critical it is for the international community to try to cool down the situation and enable deescalation, he stressed.

“China remains committed to keeping the Middle East peaceful and stable, and opposes external interference. We stand ready to work with relevant parties to work hard for lasting peace and security in the region,” he concluded.