Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, on Tuesday said that humanitarian issues should not be politicized, addressing that the UN Security Council on Monday failed to adopt a draft resolution proposed by Russia at the Security Council on the situation in Gaza.

Zhang said that the latest round of conflicts has resulted in "massive civilian casualties and humanitarian crises." China condemns all violence and attacks against civilians and opposes all acts that violate international law, he said.

He elaborated on China's position on the current grave situation between Palestine and Israel and called for all efforts for a ceasefire as soon as possible to prevent greater humanitarian disasters.

Zhang said that the protection of civilians in armed conflict is a red line under international humanitarian law. The indiscriminate use of force is unacceptable, and neither Palestinian nor Israeli civilians should be targeted. The safety of UN staff and humanitarian workers must be guaranteed.

In response to the current critical situation, China is urging the prompt establishment of humanitarian corridors to prevent the occurrence of more severe humanitarian disasters, Zhang said, adding that China supports active discussions on a humanitarian corridor in Gaza and the conclusion of feasible arrangements at an early date, and appreciates the efforts by Egypt and other countries concerned in this regard.

"We deeply regret the Security Council's failure to reach a consensus on this matter. Humanitarian issues should not be politicized, and the protection of civilians must remain a top priority for all involved parties," he said.

The ambassador also underscored that the UN must play its due role, and the Security Council must demonstrate its commitments by quickly reaching a consensus and taking concrete actions, as the international community expects.

(Cover: Palestinians gather at the site of collapsed and damaged buildings following an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, October 16, 2023. /CFP)