June 26, 2025
Iran relies on China and Russia. They didn’t show up for its fight with Israel.
“Neither Russia nor China seem especially interested in sticking their necks out for Iran,” says Rosemary Kelanic, director of the Middle East Program at Defense Priorities, a Washington think tank that advocates military restraint. “I’m sure Iran has noticed that.”
Ultimately, “These are transactional relationships,” says Dr. Kelanic. Iran, as the smaller, weaker, more isolated, and less wealthy junior partner, must accept whatever help China and Russia are willing to provide.
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