In response to escalating tensions in the Israel-Hamas conflict, China has deployed six warships to the Middle East.
The 44th Naval Escort Task Force, part of the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theatre, has also been conducting routine operations in the region, with a recent stop in Oman.
This move comes in the wake of mounting concerns that the Israel crisis could potentially lead to a broader conflict with global implications.
The naval task force, which includes the guided missile destroyer Zibo, the frigate Jingzhou, and the supply ship Qiandaohu, recently left Muscat for an undisclosed location following joint exercises with the Omani navy.
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The ships are set to be stationed in the Middle East, coinciding with Israel’s preparations for a possible ground invasion of Gaza.
During their visit to Oman, Chinese commanders engaged with Omani military officials and toured local military institutions.
Sailors from both countries even enjoyed moments of camaraderie while organizing a basketball game, as reported by a state news agency.
Over the past six months, the PLA task force has been actively involved in escort missions for shipping in the Gulf of Aden, north of Somalia. However, the task has now been passed on to the 45th task force from the PLA’s Northern Theatre command.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his perspective on the Israel-Hamas conflict on Thursday, emphasizing the need for a two-state solution to establish an independent Palestine as the “fundamental way out.”
He underscored the urgency of an immediate ceasefire to prevent the conflict from expanding further and causing a severe humanitarian crisis.
China’s deployment of warships follows a similar move by the United States earlier this week. The U.S. dispatched two aircraft carriers, the USS Gerald R. Ford and the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, to the eastern Mediterranean. Additionally, aircraft capable of conducting airstrikes were sent to the region, along with F-15 and F-16 fighter jet squadrons based in U.S. military facilities in the area.
This heightened military presence in the Middle East reflects Washington’s deep concerns that the escalating tensions in Israel could potentially lead to a full-blown war with far-reaching consequences.