Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon admitted on Monday that there were "few incidents" at the U.S.-run, Israeli-approved Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) aid setup when responding to a question from a China Central Television (CCTV) reporter.
The GHF began to operate its four distribution points in Gaza on May 26, while limiting the UN aid being allowed into the region.
Since the GHF's operation, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has repeatedly reported on deaths occurring as Palestinians rushed to its distribution points for food. Locals said they came under gunfire while trying to get food at the non-UN sites.
At a press conference, Danon admitted few incidents at the GHF distribution points, while blaming Hamas for exaggerating the situation.
"Well, unfortunately there were few incidents, but I can tell you one thing for sure: the numbers that were reported by Hamas were not correct. They were lies. They try to create the impression that it's not safe and people should not go there, instead of actually showing the real facts," he said.
Also on Monday, Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for the UN secretary-general, noted that the GHF's food distribution operation is not up to basic standards, adding that relevant parties should allow the United Nations to do its job in the region.
"What we are saying is that the operation, the food distribution operation run by the GHF doesn't meet the standards, the basic standards of impartiality, of independence, of safety for recipients. And we're saying let the UN do its work and let others do their work. We're open to others doing it with us. We can't do it alone. All we ask is that others who want to set up humanitarian operations do it in a way that is safe and sustainable," he said.
Israeli envoy admits "few incidents" at US-run, Israeli-approved humanitarian aid setup in Gaza
Israeli envoy admits "few incidents" at US-run, Israeli-approved humanitarian aid setup in Gaza
Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Saturday China is willing to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and advance the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane in the capital of Lesotho.
During the meeting, Wang congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence this year, and spoke highly of Lesotho government's efforts to prioritize economic development and steer the African country onto a path of sustainable growth. Since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024, the two sides have advanced cooperation under the 10 partnership action plans unveiled at the summit, successfully implementing a number of key projects to effectively promote Lesotho's development and revitalization, Wang said.
China stands ready to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and push for greater development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership, he added.
Calling on the two sides to firmly support each other, Wang said that China will accelerate the implementation of its zero-tariff policy for African countries, including Lesotho, expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation, facilitate broader access of Lesotho's specialty products to the Chinese market, and continue to support Lesotho's national development.
China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and acts of bullying, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, Wang said.
On his part, Matekane said during the meeting that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries, and expressed gratitude for China's valuable support for the development of African countries, including Lesotho.
Lesotho firmly adheres to the one-China principle and resolutely supports China in safeguarding its core interests, he said, noting that his country stands ready to strengthen strategic mutual trust with China, expand people-to-people exchanges, jointly implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, manufacturing and energy.
Matekane stressed that China's zero-tariff policy for African products will inject new impetus into Lesotho's development. He also expressed Lesotho's willingness to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges.
On the same day, Wang also held talks with Lejone Mpotjoana, minister of foreign affairs and international relations of Lesotho.
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
