It is widely believed by America and other established powers that China holds significant influence over the troublesome actors in the Middle East, particularly Iran. China, being the world’s largest importer of oil and liquefied natural gas, has a vested interest in maintaining stability in the region. With substantial investments in countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, China has a lot at stake.
The Biden administration and other Western governments have been urging China to use its influence to mediate with Iran and the Houthi rebels in Yemen. However, Chinese diplomats have been ambiguous in their responses, downplaying their sway in Tehran and questioning Iran’s control over the Houthis. Despite calls for China to join military efforts in the region, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has emphasized the lack of UN approval for such actions.
In a recent meeting between leaders of Fatah and Hamas in Beijing, Chinese diplomats hailed it as a significant step towards unity in Palestine. However, skeptics noted unresolved issues in the resulting Beijing Declaration, such as post-war security control in Gaza.
Western diplomats in Beijing speculate that Chinese leaders view their role in the Middle East as a diplomatic opportunity rather than a solution to the region’s problems. While China advocates for a ceasefire in Gaza and supports a Palestinian state, some Western voices suggest that China benefits from Western distractions in the Middle East.
Experts from China’s foreign policy and security circles refute the idea that China should intervene more actively in Middle Eastern conflicts. They argue that the Red Sea crisis, while affecting Chinese exports, does not warrant military involvement without UN approval. Retired PLA Colonel Zhou Bo criticizes Western pressure on China to engage militarily, pointing to the root causes of conflicts in the region.
A multinational company executive in China suggests that disruptions in global markets can present opportunities for Chinese companies to gain market share. Chinese firms, he says, are adaptable and opportunistic in challenging situations.
In assessing China’s geopolitical strategy, Mr. Zhou draws parallels to the Red Army’s tactics during the Long March, highlighting the Communist Party’s ability to strategically navigate crises and prioritize long-term goals over short-term gains. This historical perspective sheds light on China’s pragmatic approach to global affairs.
