BEIJING - China is highly concerned about the current situation in Gaza, and calls for effectively alleviating the humanitarian crisis there, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Wednesday.

"We hope that all parties will reach a ceasefire agreement as soon as possible, and promote the de-escalation of the situation," Mao told at a regular press briefing when asked about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

ALSO READ: Israel to call up 50,000 reservists before Gaza City offensive, military official says

Nearly two years into the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Gaza is unraveling under the weight of starvation and siege.