As an unprecedented Israeli attack on Iran last week sparks a spiraling conflict between the two enemy states, China has seen an opportunity to cast itself as potential peace broker – and an alternative voice to the United States.

China suggested the US use its influence with Israel to stop the conflict with Iran from spilling over, a sign Beijing is becoming increasingly concerned about the stability of a region it relies on for energy supplies.

Rising tensions in the Middle East will accelerate natural gas negotiations between Russia and China, with a decision likely this year, the head of a think-tank that advises the Russian government on China told Reuters.

The SIPRI Yearbook 2025 reveals that China’s nuclear arsenal is growing faster than any other country’s, by about 100 new warheads a year since 2023.

Chinese commentators have said that Iran might have fared better against Israeli strikes if had been equipped with Chinese weaponry

Both countries have closed their airspaces, leaving few options for citizens of other countries seeking to leave.

The USS Nimitz and its carrier strike group are steaming west from the Pacific as part of an overall buildup of US military firepower

China is suffering a "terrible loss" in the Middle East and could convince some other party to "strike us," according to Gatestone Institute's Gordon Chang.

The planes were reportedly carrying military supplies or restricted goods, potentially reinforcing Iran’s defence capabilities amid its standoff with Israel. The secrecy surrounding the landings, including the transponder shutdowns and unannounced arrivals in Tehran,