Why China Is Unlikely to Rally Behind Iran After US-Israeli Strikes

China is Iran’s most important economic partner, buying some 90% of its oil exports and providing a financial lifeline to the heavily sanctioned regime. But as US and Israeli strikes pummel Iran, Beijing has shown little support for Tehran’s defense besides criticizing the attacks.

The reasons go beyond military restraint. The relationship between China and Iran is far more lopsided and less strategic than commonly assumed. Beijing’s investment in Iran has fallen dramatically short of headline agreements, its military ties are limited and its broader Middle East strategy depends on balancing relations with Iran’s regional rivals. With a Trump-Xi summit weeks away, China has every incentive to stand aside and position itself as a voice of stability rather than an active participant in the conflict.