Iranians gathered in Tehran to mourn the loss of seven Revolutionary Guard members who were killed in Syria, as tensions rise in the region. Western diplomats are putting pressure on China to intervene and prevent Iran from escalating tensions further, particularly with a direct strike against Israel.
U.S. Secretary of State Blinken has been actively engaging with Chinese Foreign Minister and counterparts in Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Blinken has urged these foreign ministers to make it clear that escalation is not in anyone’s best interest. The U.S. is also working with European allies to send a unified message to Iran about the dangers of escalating the situation.
Germany is also in talks with Beijing ahead of the Chancellor’s upcoming visit, as they seek China’s help in diplomatic efforts with isolated countries like Russia and Iran. China is a critical trade partner of both Russia and Iran, being the last recipient of their oil exports.
It is worth mentioning that China, Russia, and Iran are all members of the China-led BRICS coalition of emerging markets. This alliance could play a crucial role in mediating the escalating tensions in the region. As the international community scrambles to prevent further conflict, all eyes are on China to use its influence to help de-escalate the situation.
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