China demands Israel halt West Bank settlements at Baku summit

Key points

• Wang Yi told Herzog that China views the Palestinian question as the greatest historical injustice of this century.
• China demanded Israel stop and reverse the 'forced establishment' of West Bank settlements, calling the two-state solution the correct path.
• Wang emphasized the immediate priority is to fully open access to Gaza to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe from spreading.
• Herzog stated he was pleased with the meeting, which focused on bilateral relations and the Middle East situation.
• Herzog highlighted Israel's desire for peace alongside strategic security threats, primarily from Iran and its proxies.
• China is Iran's largest trading partner, buying up to 90 percent of its oil, and has deepened ties with Gulf states.

Background

This diplomatic exchange follows a period of increased international pressure on Israel regarding settlements. In October 2026, Herzog condemned UK sanctions targeting Israeli settlements as a 'grave mistake' and political interference ahead of Israeli elections. Similarly, the Netherlands enforced a ban on importing goods from settlements in September 2026, and the UN expanded its corporate blacklist to 214 firms over settlement operations. These actions reflect a broader shift in European and international stances toward Israel's settlement policies. Additionally, China has been actively expanding its influence in the Middle East, with President Xi Jinping visiting Cairo in September 2026 to discuss reshaping the region's security order and opposing external influence, particularly amid the US-Israel war on Iran.

How outlets are covering it

BBC and Al Jazeera both report on the meeting between Wang Yi and Herzog in Baku, highlighting China's demand to stop West Bank settlements and its characterization of the Palestinian issue as a major historical injustice. Al Jazeera provides additional context on China's broader Middle East strategy, including Xi's September visit to Cairo and China's role as Iran's largest oil buyer. Both sources note Herzog's emphasis on security threats from Iran, but Al Jazeera elaborates on China's diplomatic efforts to position itself as a mediator in the region, contrasting with US influence. The sources agree on the core message from Wang but differ in depth regarding China's geopolitical maneuvers and the broader regional dynamics, with Al Jazeera offering more detail on China's ties with Gulf states and its stance on the US-Israel war on Iran.

Why it matters

The meeting signals China's growing assertiveness in Middle Eastern diplomacy, challenging traditional Western influence and positioning itself as a key player in resolving the Israel-Palestine conflict. By demanding Israel halt settlements, China aligns with broader international criticism of Israeli expansion while leveraging its economic ties with Iran and Gulf states. This move could reshape regional alliances and impact ongoing peace efforts, particularly as the US remains a dominant force in the region. The emphasis on opening Gaza access routes also highlights humanitarian concerns, potentially influencing future international aid and diplomatic negotiations.

What to watch

China may continue to push for a political solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, potentially through multilateral forums or direct negotiations. Israel's response to China's demands will be crucial, as Herzog's emphasis on security threats suggests a cautious approach to diplomatic pressure. The outcome of these talks could influence regional dynamics, particularly as China seeks to expand its influence in the Middle East and counter US dominance. Future developments may include further diplomatic engagements between China and Middle Eastern states, as well as potential shifts in international support for the two-state solution.