"Palestine is very bad to Taiwan," Taiwan seeks closer ties with 'Israel'

Taiwan is seeking to deepen its relationship with 'Israel' despite international criticism over the war in Gaza, citing 'Israel’s' support for the island as unmatched by other Middle Eastern countries, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-Lung told reporters on Wednesday.

Taiwan will “be friendly to countries that are friendly to us,” Lin said, highlighting a declaration signed earlier this year by 72 members of the 'Israeli' parliament backing Taiwan’s inclusion in key international organizations as an example of 'Israel’s' support.

Lin also criticized Palestine for aligning with Beijing’s “One-China” principle, saying “Palestine is very bad to Taiwan.” He emphasized that Taiwan strives to align human rights considerations with national interests during international engagements.

Earlier this year, Taiwan faced criticism for planning a donation to a medical center in an 'Israeli' settlement in the West Bank, an area deemed illegal under the International Court of Justice ruling. When asked about whether the plan had been abandoned, Lin gave no definitive answer, instead stressing Taiwan’s humanitarian efforts. “In fact, we provide a lot of humanitarian aid to both sides, including the Gaza Strip and Palestine,” he said, adding that Taiwanese diplomats are instructed not to become involved in the conflict.