Chinese President Strengthens Condemnation of Attacks in Israel and Gaza Strip Following Pressure From Schumer

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday strengthened his condemnation of increasing attacks in Israel and the Gaza Strip following pressure from  Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.

Xi released an updated statement, a notably rare move from the Chinese leader, condemning “all violence and attacks on civilians,” adding that “the most urgent task now is to reach a ceasefire and restore peace.” 

The new statement comes just hours after Schumer expressed his disappointment with a statement put out by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs calling for restraint. 

The original statement by China, put out on Sunday, said, “We call on relevant parties to remain calm, exercise restraint and immediately end the hostilities to protect civilians and avoid further deterioration of the situation.”