China condemns Israel's attack in Qatar as violation of sovereignty

China strongly condemns Israel's attack in Qatar and firmly opposes Israel's violation of Qatar's territorial sovereignty and national security, said a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Wednesday.

Israel launched an unprecedented air strike in the Qatari capital of Doha on Tuesday, targeting a building used by senior Hamas officials in what Israeli authorities described as an attempt to assassinate leaders of the group.

"We are deeply concerned that the incident may lead to further escalation of regional tensions, and express dissatisfaction with the actions of relevant parties that undermine the Gaza ceasefire negotiations," said Lin Jian, the spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, at a regular press briefing.

The strike took place as Hamas negotiators were discussing a ceasefire proposal put forward by the United States, and drew swift condemnation from Qatar, a key mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that hosts Hamas' political bureau.

"Force will not bring peace to the Middle East; dialogue and negotiation are the fundamental way out," Lin said.

Noting that the conflict in Gaza has dragged on for nearly two years, he said China strongly calls on all relevant parties, especially Israel, to make more positive efforts to cease hostilities and resume negotiations, instead of doing the opposite.

Asked about the reports that Israel had notified Washington before the air strike, Lin expressed grave concern.

He said Israel's move to strike Qatar would not be possible without the long-standing and seriously unbalanced stance on the Middle East of a certain "related outside country."

China urges "the certain major power" to prioritize regional peace and stability, uphold a just and responsible attitude, and work with the international community to play a constructive role in promoting a ceasefire, ending hostilities, and easing regional tensions, said Lin.