In a recent diplomatic effort, Palestinian factions have signed a “national unity” agreement aimed at maintaining Palestinian control over Gaza once Israel’s conflict in the enclave concludes. The deal, finalized on Tuesday in China after three days of intensive talks, lays the groundwork for an “interim national reconciliation government” to rule post-war Gaza, as stated by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The agreement was signed by long-term rivals Hamas and Fatah, along with 12 other Palestinian groups.
China's Growing Influence in the Muslim World
This move is a testament to China’s growing involvement and influence in the Middle East and the broader Muslim world. China, through its role as a mediator, is positioning itself as a key player in the region’s geopolitics. The agreement marks a significant step toward Palestinian unity, with senior Hamas official Mousa Abu Marzouk emphasizing the importance of national unity in achieving long-term peace.
Mustafa Barghouti, secretary-general of the Palestinian National Initiative, highlighted the deal’s significance, stating that it goes “much further” than previous agreements. The four main elements of the agreement include establishing an interim national unity government, forming a unified Palestinian leadership ahead of future elections, conducting free elections for a new Palestinian National Council, and declaring general unity against ongoing Israeli attacks.
Human Rights Concerns in Xinjiang
However, while China seeks to bolster its diplomatic ties with Muslim-majority countries, it simultaneously faces intense scrutiny and criticism over its human rights record, particularly regarding the treatment of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang. Nearly two years after a damning report was issued in August 2022, detailing potential “crimes against humanity” in Xinjiang, human rights groups have called for the United Nations to provide more updates and take action.
The 2022 report by the UN highlighted “credible” abuses in Xinjiang, including torture, forced sterilization, sexual violence, and the forced separation of children. China dismissed the report as a politically motivated attempt to tarnish its reputation. Despite continuous engagement with China on these issues, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has been criticized for not providing specific details or substantial updates on the situation in Xinjiang.
The Duality of China's Position
China’s dual role—acting as a mediator in the Palestinian conflict while facing accusations of severe human rights violations—presents a complex narrative. On one hand, China’s involvement in brokering a Palestinian unity agreement showcases its diplomatic ambitions and its desire to be seen as a stabilizing force in international conflicts involving Muslim-majority nations. On the other hand, its internal policies and alleged abuses against Uyghur Muslims significantly undermine its standing in the eyes of the global Muslim community and human rights advocates.
Human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, have called on the UN to follow up on the 2022 report and ensure that the findings are disseminated globally. They argue that the lack of updates and public reporting on the atrocities committed in Xinjiang undermines the credibility of the UN’s efforts and fails to hold China accountable.
Conclusion
China’s diplomatic efforts in facilitating Palestinian unity illustrate its strategic interest in enhancing its influence in the Muslim world. However, its human rights record, particularly concerning the Uyghur Muslim minority in Xinjiang, poses significant challenges to its international reputation. As China continues to engage with Muslim-majority countries, it must address these human rights concerns to maintain and build its credibility on the global stage. The international community, particularly the UN, faces the crucial task of balancing diplomatic engagements with China while pressing for accountability and transparency regarding human rights violations.
