Iran, a nation at the forefront of a brewing conflict with Israel and the United States, does not stand alone in its defiance. Behind Tehran's bold stance lies the quiet yet significant backing of China and Russia, two global powers driven by a desire to reshape the world order. Their support is not rooted in ideological solidarity with Iran's clerical regime, but rather in a shared objective to weaken American dominance and expand their own influence in the region. By backing Iran, China and Russia aim to demonstrate that Washington can no longer dictate terms in the Middle East.
China and Russia's backing of Iran stems from their desire to erode US primacy and create a multipolar world. Russia, bogged down in Ukraine and isolated by Western sanctions, sees Iran as a partner in defiance, a fellow pariah whose survival strengthens the case for a multipolar world. China, on the other hand, seeks to secure energy supplies and expand its Belt and Road footprint, while subtly undermining US alliances in the Gulf.
The mechanics of China and Russia's support for Iran are multifaceted. Military and technological aid are provided by Russia, while China offers dual-use technologies that bolster Iran's resilience. Economic lifelines are also provided, with China buying Iranian oil at discounted rates and sustaining Tehran's war economy. Russia deepens trade ties with Iran, creating a sanctions-resistant bloc.
The backing of Iran by China and Russia poses a significant challenge to the United States. It highlights the need for Washington to reassess its strategy towards Tehran, moving beyond military deterrence to address the broader architecture of support that makes Iran's defiance sustainable. This includes countering China's economic lifelines and Russia's military aid, which sustain Iran's war economy and bolster its resilience. The United States must also acknowledge that isolating Iran is no longer a unilateral endeavour, but rather a complex task that requires a coordinated approach to counter the growing coalition of resistance led by China and Russia.
