China-Iran relations

On Chinese social media, some want Iran to go nuclear – but others think it should learn from China’s “reform and opening.”

Facing the loss of its sole Arab ally and much of its sphere of influence, Tehran might seek to capitalize on the opening initiated by China to mend ties with the Arab states.

Iran experiences diplomatic distancing with Chinese characteristics.

China has long enjoyed cordial relations with Israel, Iran, and the Arab states. That balance is more and more difficult to sustain.

There’s an obvious anti-U.S. bent to China’s ties with Russia, Iran, and North Korea, but Beijing must tread carefully lest it be pulled deeper into conflict than it is willing to go.

China’s support for Russia will be a primary topic, along with war in the Middle East and tensions over Taiwan and the South China Sea.

China’s formidable capabilities are tempered by equally formidable constraints.

China could seek to use Iran as a tool to push the United States farther and farther from Taiwan.

A spokesperson said that China is “deeply concerned about the recent escalation of the Red Sea situation,” but did not mention the Houthis by name.

Beijing is contrasting its approach with Washington's in a bid to win favor from the Gulf states – while still treading cautiously.

What is driving Iran's interest in Antarctica, and how realistic are its ambitions?

Insights from Julian Spencer-Churchill and Behrouz Ayaz.

There is an important connection between China and Hamas’ attack last weekend.

China’s diplomatic push into the region is less than meets the eye – but it should not be ignored, either.

When it was clear that an agreement was possible to finalize the détente, China took the mantle of responsibility and the role of a direct mediator.

The major diplomatic breakthrough, negotiated in Beijing with China as mediator, is a demonstration of China's influence in the Middle East.

As demonstrated during President Raisi’s visit to China, a return to the Iran nuclear deal is very much in Beijing’s interests. So why is China not pushing for exactly that?

Iran wants more Chinese investment, but Beijing wants progress on the nuclear issue first.

During his three-day visit, Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi made clear that Iran is not satisfied with progress on a 2021 partnership agreement.

Xi Jinping’s recent visit to Riyadh resulted in a rare diplomatic rebuke from Tehran. 

Iran is the newest member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

China’s arming of Iran creates a vicious cycle in which Iranian proxies motivate other Middle Eastern states to arm themselves too, creating more customers for Beijing.

China has struck a careful balance between regional rivals, especially Iran and the Gulf. But amid shifting dynamics, staying neutral may not be an option.

Insights from Benjamin Tsai.