China calls on Israel to exercise restraint

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – China is calling on Israel to exercise restraint along its border with Gaza a day after 59 Palestinians were killed in a protest.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said Tuesday that China "opposes violent acts targeting innocent people" and urges all sides to avoid escalating tensions.

Lu said China believes in a two-state resolution and that the status of Jerusalem should be resolved through dialogue between Palestinians and Israelis in accordance with relevant UN resolutions.

China has long championed the Palestinian cause while also maintaining close economic, diplomatic and military relations with Israel.