China expresses "concern over potential instability" following Hamas leader assassination

"Resolute Condemnation of Assassination"
No Mention of Israel

China condemned the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the top political leader of the Palestinian armed faction Hamas, expressing concerns over the potential destabilization of the regional situation.

Ismail Haniyeh (center front), the top leader of the Islamic militant group Hamas active in the Gaza Strip, Palestine, made a 'V' sign with his fingers while attending the inauguration ceremony of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran, Iran, on the 30th (local time). On the same day, Hamas announced that Haniyeh was killed during a raid while staying at a residence in Tehran for the presidential inauguration. [Image source=Yonhap News]

At a regular briefing on the 31st, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Zhen responded to reporters' questions about China's stance on Haniyeh's assassination, saying, "We have been closely monitoring the related incident. We firmly oppose and condemn the assassination act," and added, "We are deeply concerned that this incident could further destabilize the regional situation."

However, Lin did not mention who was responsible for the assassination. Earlier, Hamas issued a statement that morning, accusing Israel of the assassination, stating, "Martyr Haniyeh died following a deceptive attack by Zionists targeting his residence in Tehran after attending the inauguration of Iran's new president."

Spokesperson Lin stated, "China has consistently advocated resolving regional conflicts through negotiation and dialogue, emphasizing that Gaza must promptly achieve a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire, and that escalation of clashes and confrontations must be avoided."

From the 21st to the 23rd, China invited representatives from 14 Palestinian factions, including Hamas and Fatah, the ruling party of the Palestinian Authority, which have long been in conflict, to facilitate reconciliation. Under China's mediation, the 14 factions issued a joint declaration to form a new government centered on the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).