China says it opposes actions that violate Lebanon’s sovereignty, ’territorial integrity

By Anadolu staff

ANKARA(AA) – China on Wednesday said it is “deeply” concerned over the continued escalation in the Middle East.

“We oppose actions that violate Lebanon’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity and any move that could further escalate tensions in the region,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian told reporters in Beijing, while responding to a query about Israel’s claim of killing Hezbollah Executive Council’s head Hashem Safieddine in an airstrike on Beirut earlier this month.

“We hope that relevant sides will return to the track of political settlement as early as possible, and settle differences and disputes through communication and dialogue to cool down the regional situation as soon as possible,” he added.

Israel has mounted a huge air campaign in Lebanon since last month against what it claims are Hezbollah targets in an escalation from a year of cross-border warfare between Israel and the group since the start of Israel’s brutal offensive on Gaza.

At least 2,546 people have been killed and more than 11,860 injured in Israeli attacks since October last year, according to Lebanese health authorities.

Israel expanded the conflict on Oct. 1 this year by launching a ground assault into southern Lebanon.