China’s help critical, but unlikely, for US to choke off Iran

The United States has threatened the economic asphyxiation of Iran by expanding sanctions against the Islamic republic, nearly six months into the ongoing Middle East conflict. However, analysts note that successfully executing this chokehold on Iran's economy would require critical cooperation from China.

Despite the necessity of Beijing's help for the US strategy to succeed, such cooperation remains unlikely. In response to Washington's plans, Beijing has defended its ongoing cooperation with Tehran and vowed to safeguard its own interests.