Why China is playing the long game in Iran despite Trump’s fresh threats

Amidst US threats against Iran, China is maintaining a restrained approach, prioritizing its long-term energy interests and diplomatic principles. Chinese officials, including Wang, have reiterated their opposition to the use of force and emphasized the importance of dialogue, offering to play a constructive role in resolving the US-Iran conflict. Despite maintaining ties with Iran through decades of sanctions and the recent US abduction of a leader from another Chinese energy partner, China has avoided direct condemnation of US actions or concrete steps to intervene. Analysts suggest this muted response reflects a calculated strategy to balance energy needs with diplomatic caution and a recalibration of its Middle East policy. China's position is described as conservative, with no indication of direct intervention.

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