China Condemns Israeli Attack on Kamal Adwan Hospital Amid Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

China has issued a strong condemnation of the recent attack by Israeli forces on Kamal Adwan Hospital, the sole comprehensive medical facility remaining in northern Gaza, shortly before the new year. Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, expressed serious concern during a UN Security Council briefing, highlighting the continuous suffering in Gaza where residents live under the constant threat of bombings, rather than anticipating a joyous new year celebration.

This assault on Kamal Adwan Hospital, which included the forced detention of medical staff and the transfer of innocent patients, has resulted in numerous fatalities and has left the hospital engulfed in flames. Fu noted that this attack is part of a troubling trend, as the OHCHR report indicates that by June 2024, numerous hospitals in Gaza have faced significant assaults, resulting in the deaths of over 500 medical professionals.

He underscored that the protection of medical facilities in conflict zones is a fundamental principle of international humanitarian law. Targeting medical establishments, especially without evidence that they have been converted into military targets, constitutes a violation of this law and could be deemed a war crime. Furthermore, he commented on analyses suggesting that Israel's attacks on medical facilities aim to dismantle Gaza's medical system, contributing to a broader strategy to render the region uninhabitable.

Fu called on Israel to comply with international humanitarian law, cease assaults on medical facilities, and ensure the safety of healthcare personnel. He voiced that the ongoing conflict has resulted in a catastrophic humanitarian situation, and urged for immediate steps towards achieving peace, as the situation has reached a perilous level after 15 months of violence.

At the briefing, Fu criticized claims from certain nations about a soon-to-be-reached ceasefire, pointing out that the reality includes continuous violence and loss of life. He advocated for political solutions over military ones, emphasizing that achieving peace must not come at the expense of innocent lives.

China also urged Israel to heed the international community's calls to halt its military operations and to facilitate humanitarian access in Gaza. Fu reiterated China's support for the Security Council's role in maintaining international peace, advocating for a ceasefire, alleviating humanitarian crises, and advancing a two-state solution that aligns with global expectations.