Staff Reports
Breitbart Editor-in-Chief Alex Marlow suggested on his show that China could be the X factor in any brokered peace with Iran. It is a sharp idea and one worth debating. China already keeps Iran’s economy afloat. That gives Beijing influence. But influence is not the same as friendship, and trusting China to play fair would be a risky gamble.
China’s leverage over Iran
China buys Iranian oil, invests in big projects, and trades with Tehran even when others pull back. That ties Iran’s survival to Chinese business. In simple terms: Beijing keeps the lights on and the ships sailing. That kind of leverage matters if any deal is to be reached. It also means China can shape what Iran gets and what it gives away.
Can China be a true mediator?
Yes, China has motive to calm the region. War would hurt trade, raise oil prices, and upset Beijing’s plans. But motive is not the same as trustworthiness. China will look out for China. If Beijing brokers a deal, expect terms that protect its access to energy and expand its influence in the Middle East. Relying on China to act as a neutral referee is like asking a fox to guard the henhouse. It might do the work — but only if it suits the fox.
What America should do instead
If China plays a role, the U.S. must shape the table, not be sidelined. That means keeping sanctions that bite, demanding transparent inspections, and coordinating closely with regional allies. Pressuring China’s banks and trading partners to stop laundering money or shipping banned goods should be on the table. In short, use leverage to make any deal real and verifiable, not a glossy press photo for Beijing.
Alex Marlow is right to point out China’s potential role. But potential is not a plan. Washington should welcome any effort that reduces violence, while making sure deals protect American interests and allies. Naive faith that China will act as an honest broker would hand Tehran a win and leave the U.S. with the bill. Whoever sits at the negotiating table, the U.S. must lead — or risk watching others write the rules.
