China’s Strategy to Enhance Its Influence in the Middle East Amid U.S. Policy Changes
China is strategically aligning with Arab nations and improving ties with Israel while opposing Trump’s U.S. Gaza plan. It advocates for a two-state solution and plans to send food aid to Gaza. Experts believe this could enhance China’s influence in the Middle East amidst U.S. aid cuts.
China is endeavoring to increase its influence in the Middle East by aligning closely with Arab nations while simultaneously fostering improved relations with Israel. This strategy includes challenging the U.S. proposal put forth by President Donald Trump, which suggests the resettlement of Palestinian inhabitants from Gaza. Experts believe that this balancing act could enhance China’s stature as a significant regional player.
In its opposition to the U.S. Gaza plan, China has articulated its support for a two-state solution based on a United Nations resolution from 1967 that advocates for Palestinian governance over the West Bank and Gaza. To showcase its commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause, China is preparing to send 60,000 food parcels to Gaza, with a portion of 12,000 parcels already dispatched.
While the United States has recently announced a complete halt to its foreign aid efforts, a decision currently paused by a U.S. court order, China’s proactive stance appears to be resonating positively in the region. John Calabrese, the director of the Middle East-Asia project at the Middle East Institute, noted that despite Trump’s substantial influence in the Middle East, China has unequivocally asserted its position against the U.S. plan.
In summary, China’s calibrated approach towards maintaining relations with both Arab and Israeli nations while challenging the U.S. Gaza plan positions it to augment its influence in the Middle East. The delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza illustrates China’s commitment to supporting Palestinian welfare, further contrasting its stance with the American government’s recent funding decisions. Overall, China’s efforts to foster engagement in the region could result in a pivotal shift in geopolitical dynamics.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
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