Recent reports from internet users in China have revealed that two of the country's tech giants, Baidu and Alibaba, have made a surprising alteration to their online maps by removing the name of Israel. This development has raised concerns and economic implications for Israelis living in China, as it affects their ability to find addresses, entities, or companies in Israel.
The Wall Street Journal reported that Baidu's Chinese-language map, which displays Israel's borders, major cities, and the Palestinian territories, notably lacks the label "Israel." Similarly, the maps provided by Alibaba's subsidiary, 'Amap,' have also conspicuously omitted Israel's name. This decision by both companies to remove Israel from their maps has sparked intrigue and questions regarding its motives.
Noted human rights connoisseurs, the Chinese government, are removing Israel from maps. Remember when people were saying Israel should move away from the US and get closer to Russia and China? Idiots. https://t.co/Mp9YOKuE3R
ā Shaiel Ben-Ephraim (@academic_la) October 31, 2023
Despite inquiries regarding this alteration, neither Baidu nor Alibaba has provided an official response or explanation for this change in their map services. This lack of transparency has left many puzzled and has raised concerns among Israelis residing in China.
One Israeli living in China pointed out the potential economic ramifications of this change. Businessmen and individuals seeking information related to Israel now face difficulties due to the absence of Israel on Chinese maps. This development could hinder business transactions and interactions between China and Israel, further highlighting the significance of the issue.
This alteration comes in the wake of a report by The New York Times, which highlighted a disturbing wave of anti-Semitic statements on Chinese social networks following the conflict with Hamas. Some Chinese social media influencers and broadcasters made alarming claims, with one influencer on Weibo, a popular Chinese social network, categorizing Hamas as a "resistance organization" while labeling Israel a "terrorist organization" due to its actions in the Gaza Strip, including civilian casualties.
BREAKING: CHINA REMOVE ISRAEL FROM THEIR DIGITAL MAP pic.twitter.com/SBuzyaUoEf
ā Sulaiman Ahmed (@ShaykhSulaiman) October 31, 2023
Moreover, a prominent broadcaster in China alleged that Jews wielded disproportionate control over U.S. capital. The responses to these claims often featured anti-Semitic images and trivialization of the Holocaust. Some social media users even drew comparisons between Israel and the Nazis in the aftermath of the Gaza conflict.
In a diplomatic context, about a week ago, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi engaged in discussions with his Israeli counterpart, Eli Cohen, expressing China's intent to contribute to reconciliation efforts between Israel and the Palestinians. Minister Wang emphasized that while all countries have the right to defend themselves, they must do so in accordance with international humanitarian law and prioritize the safety of civilians.
Interestingly, Khaled Mashal, the leader of Hamas abroad, claimed that both Russia and China praised a terrorist attack that occurred on October 7th. In an interview with an Egyptian TV channel, Mashal asserted that the attack had benefited Russia by diverting attention from them and Ukraine. Additionally, China viewed the incident as an impressive case, according to Mashal, who disclosed that the Russians had informed him that the events of October 7th would be taught in military schools.
