China's Foreign Policy toward Iran: The Changing Landscape of Politics and Its Implication on the Middle East Power dynamics

Abstract

China’s foreign policy toward Iran has undergone significant shifts in recent years, reflecting broader geopolitical realignments and Beijing’s growing influence in the Middle East. This paper examines the evolving nature of Sino-Iranian relations, focusing on key factors such as economic cooperation, strategic partnerships, and energy security. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has deepened ties between the two nations, while U.S. sanctions on Iran have pushed Tehran to seek alternative economic and diplomatic alliances, further solidifying its relationship with China. Moreover, China’s balancing act between Iran and other regional powers, including Saudi Arabia and Israel, underscores its pragmatic approach to Middle Eastern politics. The recent China-brokered Saudi-Iran rapprochement highlights Beijing’s increasing role as a diplomatic mediator, challenging traditional Western influence in the region. These shifts have significant implications for Middle East power dynamics, reshaping alliances and potentially altering the strategic calculus of major players, including the United States. The China’s engagement with Iran through political, economic, and security lenses, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how this evolving relationship is transforming regional stability and global power structures.