China on Monday called on the UN Security Council to quickly respond to and take actions on Israel's deadly attack against a humanitarian flotilla bound for Gaza.

"China is shocked by Israel's attack on a multinational convoy carrying international aid to Gaza which resulted in heavy casualties," said Yang Tao, a counsellor of the Chinese permanent mission to the United Nations, at the 15-nation council's emergency meeting.

"We condemn Israel's actions targeting humanitarian workers and civilians," he said. "We support a quick response by the Security Council and take necessary actions."

Yang also expressed serious concern about the "grim" humanitarian situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, especially the Gaza Strip.

"We urge Israel immediately and fully implement Security Council resolution 1860, fully open border crossings, lift blockade on the Gaza Strip so as to allow unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and allow local people to achieve early recovery and restore a normal life," he added.

The council was currently meeting behind closed doors to discuss the text of a draft presidential statement submitted by Turkey.