China has a history of being pro-Palestinian, but now faces diplomatic conundrum

China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi, has accused Israel of going ‘beyond the scope of self defence’. Photograph: Mark Schiefelbein/AP

China was an early proponent of a ceasefire in Gaza and has called for wider talks on resolving the Palestinian question. But analysts say the situation is complicated, and it’s not clear what Beijing expects to achieve, and how it can get there.

Beijing has been a supporter of the Palestinians since the Mao era and long called for a two-state solution, but it is increasingly close to Israel, and is presenting itself as a neutral party that holds steadfast to a noninterference principle.