Tehran and Beijing are exploring diplomatic paths amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States. Tehran, Iran – Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to visit China on Wednesday, marking his second trip to the Chinese capital since the onset of the US-Israel conflict with Iran at the end of February. This visit coincides with a planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington later in September.
During his visit, Araghchi will meet with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi. These meetings underscore China’s role during the conflict, as it positions itself as a neutral party seeking to end hostilities. In a recent address at a BRICS summit in New Delhi, Xi called on the Global South to act as peacemakers in the Middle East and expressed China’s willingness to collaborate towards this goal.
While Xi suggested a potential role for China in mediating between the US and Iran, he did not announce any specific diplomatic initiatives. Instead, he reiterated a four-point plan for de-escalation in the Middle East, which emphasizes peaceful coexistence, respect for sovereignty, adherence to international law, and balancing development with security.
Analysts note that while China is interested in stabilizing the region due to its impact on financial and energy markets, it has historically refrained from deeply involving itself in third-party conflicts. Inside Iran, reactions to Xi’s comments have varied. Former Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif described Xi’s initiatives as timely opportunities for de-escalation, while Hamed Vafaei, a professor at the University of Tehran, viewed the interpretation of Xi’s remarks as an offer to mediate as overly optimistic.
Araghchi is also expected to discuss Iran’s nuclear program with Chinese officials, as the US seeks to renew focus on Tehran’s activities. Recently, the US and its European allies succeeded in referring Iran to the UN Security Council through the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), a move that is largely seen as symbolic due to opposition from China and Russia, who can veto any new measures.
Western pressure on Iran continues, with sanctions impacting its nuclear chief and ongoing US sanctions aimed at isolating the Iranian government. Despite these sanctions, China remains the largest buyer of Iranian crude oil and has committed to protecting its interests, continuing to purchase oil beyond the reach of US sanctions. Additionally, reports have emerged regarding Iran obtaining satellite images from Chinese entities prior to an attack on a US military base in Jordan, which resulted in the deaths of three American soldiers. In response to inquiries about the incident, Trump acknowledged the espionage activities of both nations, stating that both countries engage in such actions.