Gulf Arab states are seeking Chinese economic leverage to pressure Iran and reopen vital maritime trade routes.
Gulf Arab states are increasingly turning to China to mediate the escalating five-month conflict between the United States and Iran. As the Strait of Hormuz remains restricted, Gulf nations are seeking to utilize Beijing's economic influence as the world's largest oil buyer to pressure Tehran into a negotiated deal. This shift reflects growing frustration with the limitations of American power exposed by the ongoing hostilities. While the US-Israel joint war has impacted regional energy exports, China has maintained close communication with all parties to promote peace. China's special envoy, Zhai Jun, has held talks in Gulf Arab capitals and Tehran to facilitate a ceasefire. Despite these diplomatic efforts, Gulf governments have tempered their expectations regarding a formal security partnership with a new China, as Beijing continues to provide Iran with satellite imagery and missile systems.