China’s Middle East policy at a crossroads 6 months into US-Israeli war on Iran
Gulf states are making a strategic pivot as the war in Iran drags on into its sixth month but observers warned that their shift towards self-reliant defence networks could test China’s “involvement without commitment” strategy in the region. The war has forced Gulf leaders to face the reality that neither the United States nor China is able to protect them from attacks by Iran. On Wednesday, the…
Six months into the US-Israeli war on Iran, Gulf states are reevaluating their strategic alliances, but China's role remains uncertain. The conflict has exposed the limits of China's "involvement without commitment" strategy in the region. Despite diplomatic efforts, Iran continues targeting the Gulf states, prompting nations like Kuwait and Saudi Arabia to seek new defensive partners.
Analysts say these shifts signal a deeper move towards strategic autonomy. China's policy aims to avoid being drawn into regional alliances, maintaining its narrative as a Global South leader.
Written by urgent.news from Reuters Business via SCMP's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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