China best positioned to pressure Iran, says Russia affairs expert

Russian affairs analyst Samer Elias has said that China is the most influential party capable of exerting pressure on Iran.

Speaking in an interview with Al Arabiya FM, Elias explained that China maintains extensive trade relations with Iran, which relies on Beijing for many issues.

Elias added that Russia seeks to play a role in easing tensions between Washington and Tehran and in bringing their positions closer, including by conveying messages between the two sides. He also noted that Moscow has a role to play on the technical front.

He continued that Russia’s role could complement mediation efforts by Oman, Qatar, and Pakistan, as Moscow does not present itself as the sole mediator in this matter. Elias pointed out that Russia has an interest in preventing Iran’s total collapse, while also avoiding a complete loss for the United States at this time, as such an outcome could deal a significant blow to President Donald Trump in the upcoming US midterm congressional elections.

View the post on X