International Relations | Diplomacy | Middle East Affairs

China, Russia, and Iran have urged diplomacy over threats and sanctions regarding Iran’s nuclear program. During a meeting in Beijing, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi called for an end to unilateral sanctions and military threats, emphasizing peaceful negotiations.

The meeting follows former U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement that Iran must choose between a new nuclear deal or military action. China has consistently opposed U.S. sanctions and the “maximum pressure” campaign that began after Trump withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

With concerns rising over Iran’s expanding uranium stockpile, China aims to position itself as a global mediator. Analysts suggest China and Russia prefer a focused nuclear deal, while the U.S. and European nations seek broader agreements. Iran, meanwhile, strengthens ties with both countries as it faces Western pressure.

China’s growing role in Middle Eastern diplomacy aligns with its broader strategic interests, including energy security and regional stability. However, experts believe China’s influence remains limited, with Tehran and Moscow primarily using Beijing’s platform to counter Western narratives.