Trump seeks China’s help on Iran deal, but Beijing unlikely to comply

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump is expected to ask Chinese President Xi Jinping for help in dealing with the Iran conflict during their upcoming meeting, but reports suggest Beijing is unlikely to fully agree.

Washington reportedly wants China to use its influence over Iran to push Tehran back into negotiations and help bring an end to the ongoing conflict that has shaken global oil markets and increased pressure on the US economy and Trump’s leadership.

However, experts believe China will not reduce its close economic and strategic ties with Iran. Beijing remains Iran’s biggest oil buyer and considers Tehran an important partner in the Middle East as well as a counterbalance to US influence in the region.

At the same time, China is also concerned about stability in key shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz, which has been affected by tensions. Still, analysts say China is unlikely to take strong steps against Iran that could harm its own interests.

US officials believe Beijing is one of the few powers capable of influencing Iran’s leadership, but Washington’s options to pressure China are limited due to the risk of major economic backlash.

While the US has already imposed sanctions on some Chinese firms linked to Iran, experts say these actions have had little impact. Tougher measures, such as targeting major Chinese banks, could escalate tensions and possibly restart a wider trade conflict between the two countries.

Beijing has criticized US sanctions and insists that the priority should be preventing further escalation rather than increasing pressure on other nations.

Overall, analysts say China is likely to stay cautious and avoid deep involvement in the Middle East crisis, prioritizing its own economic and strategic interests over US requests.