China has refrained from providing direct military assistance to Iran during its ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel, according to Muhannad Selum, assistant professor of international politics at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies. In an interview with Al Jazeera, Selum stated that Beijing avoided such involvement due to the high risks and potential costs of being drawn into the war. However, he noted that China has not completely abandoned Iran.

Selum explained that China seeks to prevent a global order dominated solely by the United States. He added that Beijing has used its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block proposals targeting Iran, particularly those related to the management of the Strait of Hormuz. While China is unlikely to offer direct military support soon, Selum suggested that some Chinese companies under US sanctions may have provided technical assistance to Iran.

The analysis highlights Beijing’s cautious approach to balancing its strategic interests while maintaining influence in Middle Eastern affairs.