China on Thursday condemned the killing of Palestinians by Israeli army in Rafah of the Gaza Strip.

"China condemns the Israeli troops' firing at Palestinian demonstrators which resulted in heavy casualties on the Palestinian side," said Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao at a regular press conference.

At least 10 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others injured on Wednesday when Israeli troops fired on a group of demonstrators who were protesting against an Israeli military operation in Rafah.

"We urge the Israeli side to respond to the appeal of the international community, and immediately halt its military operations in Palestinian areas to avoid further deterioration of the situation," Liu said.