TEHRAN: Iran is confronting one of the most severe crises in its recent history largely without direct support from its major partners, as Russia and China limit their response to diplomatic statements despite escalating conflict with the United States and Israel.
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Following the assassination of its supreme leader and sustained military pressure from US forces, Tehran has expanded the scope of the conflict beyond the Middle East. Iranian missiles and drones have struck targets across the region, reaching areas as far as Cyprus, Azerbaijan, Turkey and several Gulf states.
The attacks have targeted energy infrastructure, oil facilities, refineries and US bases, triggering disruptions in global energy supply. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — a critical route that carries about 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply — has been severely affected, sending oil prices higher and unsettling global markets.
Despite Iran’s close strategic ties with Russia and China, both countries have so far avoided direct military involvement. Analysts say their cautious stance reflects strategic calculations rather than a lack of political alignment with Tehran.
Russia remains heavily focused on its ongoing war in Ukraine and appears reluctant to risk a direct confrontation with the United States in the Middle East. Experts say Moscow is prioritising its broader geopolitical interests and maintaining relations with Gulf states.
China has also maintained a restrained response. While Beijing has strengthened economic and diplomatic ties across the Middle East over the years, its partnerships are largely based on trade and investment rather than formal security commitments.
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China’s leadership is also mindful of its heavy reliance on energy imports from the Gulf, including oil shipments that pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Observers note that the current crisis has allowed both Moscow and Beijing to position themselves as potential mediators while avoiding deeper military entanglement in a rapidly escalating conflict.