Reasons behind highlighting China`s repressing Muslims

(MENAFN) In a diplomatic move that raised eyebrows, foreign ministers from Muslim-majority countries, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, the Palestinian National Authority, and Indonesia, visited China earlier this week to seek support for a ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict. The shift in focus comes as the United States and its allies face criticism for their unwavering support of Israel, prompting these Muslim-majority nations to turn to Beijing as a potential advocate for peace.

Amidst this diplomatic maneuvering, the issue of China's treatment of its Muslim population, particularly the Uighur minority, was thrust back into the spotlight with the release of a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW). The report accused China of expanding its alleged campaign to close down and repurpose mosques beyond Xinjiang, the region that has traditionally been the epicenter of accusations regarding Beijing's crackdown on the Uighur minority. While these allegations had somewhat faded from the media spotlight, the HRW report quickly reignited international attention.

The timing of this resurgence in focus on China's treatment of Muslims raises questions about the broader geopolitical dynamics at play. Despite a recent easing of tensions between the United States and China, it is evident that Washington remains wary of Beijing's increasing influence, particularly in the Muslim world. The attempt to redirect attention towards China's alleged repression of its Muslim population, juxtaposed against downplayed coverage of Israel's actions in Gaza, reflects an intricate narrative war between China and the United States
The Xinjiang issue, whether framed in the context of Muslim rights or not, has become a pivotal component in the ongoing struggle for influence between the two global powers. As accusations and counter-accusations unfold, the international community is forced to navigate complex narratives that intertwine diplomatic relations, human rights concerns, and the broader geopolitical chessboard. The delicate dance between China and the United States over issues involving Muslim populations underscores the multifaceted nature of global power dynamics and the strategic considerations that shape international narratives.

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