The Bulletin July 14, 2025
Why it matters: Araghchi's visit to China provides Tehran with a high-profile platform to reframe its regional narrative and showcase its growing alignment with Beijing. The visit highlights a strategic alignment as China continues purchasing Iranian oil and transferring missile-related materials and air-defense systems to Tehran, while Russia's presence signals Moscow's shared interest in challenging U.S. influence in the region. Iran is also expected to use this opportunity to advocate for broader security coordination among alliances and deepen its cooperation with Chinese leadership.
Read more in-depth coverage:
'Isolationist Voices' Might Have Lost Footing With Trump After Iran: Pence
TL/DR: Iran's growing partnership with China after its recent conflict with Israel—and U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear targets— underscores Beijing's expanding influence in the Middle East.
What happens now? Tehran is set to expand its strategic partnership with Beijing, solidifying economic ties and deepening military-technical cooperation. This growing alliance challenges U.S. influence across the Middle East, even as Washington steps up sanctions enforcement.
Deeper reading Iran and China Challenge US as Alliance Grows
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