Israeli Chargé d'Affaires in Taiwan: China's Reaction to Hamas Attacks is 'Worrisome'

The Israeli chargé d'affaires in Taipei referred to Taiwan as a 'good friend' of Israel but stated that China's reaction to the Hamas militants' attack is 'worrisome.' Maya Yaron, the Israeli chargé d'affaires in Taipei, expressed gratitude for the strong support from Tsai Ing-wen, the President of Taiwan, and the Taiwanese government, stating that Taiwan has been a 'good friend' and Israel appreciates its support. The United States, the European Union, and Japan have designated the Hamas militant group, which is supported by the Islamic Republic, as a terrorist organization. Like many countries, Israel does not have official diplomatic relations with Taiwan. China has labeled the Taiwanese government as illegal and claims ownership of the island. However, Taiwan considers Israel an important democratic partner. Following the October 7 attack by Hamas militants on Israel, Taipei quickly condemned it and expressed strong support and sympathy for Israel. Yaron stated, 'Taiwan is truly a good friend for Israel, and we really appreciate everything we receive from Taiwan. I am in close contact with the Foreign Minister; I think the people of this country are very worried.' She reiterated her country's disappointment with China for not condemning the Hamas attacks against Israeli civilians, saying, 'This action by China is indeed very upsetting for us.' Beijing condemned the violence and attacks on civilians in the conflicts, with Wang Yi, the Chinese Foreign Minister, declaring Israel's actions as 'beyond the scope of self-defense,' but did not mention Hamas in his statements. China and Russia vetoed the U.S. effort on Wednesday to pressure the United Nations Security Council to act regarding the Israel-Hamas war. The two countries only called for a ceasefire for humanitarian access, civilian protection, and the cessation of arming Hamas and other militant groups in the Gaza Strip. Israel: Reconstruction of the south of the country after the Hamas attack will take years. Biden expressed concern about the situation of Palestinian civilians in the West Bank. The U.S. urged its allies in the Middle East to help cut off Hamas's funding networks.