'What is the game plan?': The Iran war is unsettling China and its ambitions
China is not feeling the shock of war in the Middle East - yet. But it is feeling the ripples.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"A prolonged period of turmoil and insecurity in the Middle East will disrupt other regions of importance for China."
— Philip Shetler-Jones , Academic
"I think China is thinking the same as everyone else."
— Kerry Brown , Academic
Key People
Ali Khamenei was the Supreme Leader of Iran until his death.
A professor at Kings College London, known for his insights into Chinese politics and foreign relations.
An expert from the Royal United Services Institute specializing in geopolitical issues.
Xi Jinping is the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China and President of China.
All Coverage
China is not feeling the shock of war in the Middle East - yet. But it is feeling the ripples.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
While the world is distracted, China steps up its strategic game - Reuters
While the world is distracted, China steps up its strategic game Reuters
August 14, 2026 at 01:35 PMBattered by war, Iran’s rulers wary of more economic pain and unrest if US tightens pressure - Reuters
Battered by war, Iran’s rulers wary of more economic pain and unrest if US tightens pressure Reuters
August 17, 2026 at 08:52 PMIran war a boon for China's e-trucks, fuelling export surge - Reuters
Iran war a boon for China's e-trucks, fuelling export surge Reuters
August 14, 2026 at 10:18 PMTrump threatens 'tremendous economic consequences' on any country helping Iran
It comes after a 60-day ceasefire expired on Monday, with no sign of a diplomatic or military off-ramp to the conflict.
August 20, 2026 at 12:52 AMIran threatens to go on offensive in Strait of Hormuz if diplomacy with US fails - Reuters
Iran threatens to go on offensive in Strait of Hormuz if diplomacy with US fails Reuters
August 17, 2026 at 06:03 PMUS warns Iran it will step up economic pressure; two more ships attacked in Hormuz - Reuters
US warns Iran it will step up economic pressure; two more ships attacked in Hormuz Reuters
August 14, 2026 at 11:00 AM