Radio France Internationale (RFI) recently summarized, in Chinese, a commentary by Le Monde, the most widely read paid national daily newspaper in France. The commentary said that China, a supporter of the Iranian regime and the largest buyer of Iranian oil, expressed anger following the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran. However, China once again gives the impression of “acting too little and reacting too late”.
Despite Western sanctions against Iran, China continues to support the Iranian economy by purchasing oil. China also provides Iran with technical support in population surveillance and internet control. China has provided ongoing diplomatic support to Tehran, pushing for its accession to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS. The Chinese military regularly conducts joint military exercises with Iran and Russia as well.
However, when Iran encounters national security problems, they cannot truly rely on China as a “backer.” China does not see itself as obligated to intervene. China is once again giving the impression of “acting too little and reacting too late,” just as it did in June 2025.
In the meantime, Tehran has not fully heeded Beijing’s advice. China has criticized Tehran’s inefficiency in developing its economy and creating a favorable business environment, and has long criticized Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons. In a sense, Iran is also a burden on China.
Source: RFI, March 3, 2026
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