China condemns attacks on civilians in Palestine-Israel conflict, calls for ceasefire and peace talks

China on Monday expressed opposition and condemnation to attacks against civilians in the escalating conflict between Palestine and Israel, hoping to see an early ceasefire, a cessation of war and restoration of peace.

"We are deeply saddened about the civilian casualties caused by the conflict," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters, adding that China opposed actions that escalate the conflict and destabilize the region.

She called for the international community to play its role and work together to cool down the situation.

The spokeswoman said that China always stands with justice and equity regarding the conflict. "As the friend of both Israel and Palestine, we sincerely hope to see that the two can coexist peacefully."

The way out of the cycle of the Palestine-Israel conflict lies in resuming peace talks and implementing the two-state solution, Mao reiterated.

She called for promoting the comprehensive and proper settlement of the Palestinian issue through political means at an early date and guaranteeing reasonable concerns of all parties.

There is no way out for retaliating violence with violence, she said, adding that dialogue and negotiation are the right way forward.

The international community should step up input into the Palestine question, facilitate the early resumption of peace talks between Palestine and Israel, and find a way to bring about enduring peace, she said.

China will continue to make unremitting efforts in this regard with the international community, she added.

In another development, Mao reminded Chinese nationals of not visiting Palestine and Israel, and asked those in Palestine and Israel to pay close attention to the security situation, strengthen safety precautions, as well as stay at home and not to go outside.

China's embassy in Israel and its office to the State of Palestine have issued security alerts and are getting contact with local Chinese, and provide assistance to Chinese in need, she said.

"We will try our best to protect the security of Chinese nationals and institutions," she said.