Frustrated with the US, Gulf states look to China for help reining in Iran
BEIRUT/RIYADH (Reuters) — As the Iran war escalates again, Gulf Arab states are looking to China, not Washington, to use its economic leverage over Iran to open up the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea, testing how far Beijing is able and willing to pressure Tehran.The Gulf push for a bigger Chinese role is driven by growing frustration, Gulf sources say. The war launched on February 28 with US-Israeli attacks on Iran that have hurt the Gulf states’ regional foe but also restricted their vital energy exports and, to varying degrees, put them in the firing line.With Iran and its allies threatening the Bab el-Mandeb waterway in the Red Sea as well as Hormuz, Gulf states have sought Beijing’s help, conscious that the war has exposed the limits of American power, three regional sources say.China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has held dozens of calls and meetings with counterparts seeking a…
Frustrated with the US response to escalating conflict with Iran, Gulf Arab states are increasingly looking to China to leverage its economic influence over Tehran to secure vital shipping lanes like the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. The conflict, which began on February 28 with US-Israeli attacks on Iran, has disrupted energy exports and put Gulf states at risk. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi and special envoy Zhai Jun have engaged in extensive diplomatic efforts, with China's foreign ministry stating, "China has maintained close communication with all parties, and has consistently worked to stop the fighting and promote peace." However, doubts persist regarding China's willingness or capacity to exert significant pressure, as Beijing prioritizes maintaining regional relationships and avoids binding security commitments, unlike the US.
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