#China Middle East diplomacy

Iran's retaliatory strikes across the Gulf are unraveling China's careful Middle East balancing act, forcing Beijing to choose sides in a volatile region.

As Iran's retaliatory strikes expand across the Gulf, China faces a diplomatic dilemma between strategic partner Tehran and economically vital GCC states, testing its 2023 mediation success.

With Iran's Supreme Leader dead and regional war erupting, China must recalibrate its balanced diplomacy strategy while protecting economic interests and global influence.