China has formally opposed the use of military force in Iran, calling for diplomatic solutions as regional tensions rise following widespread anti-government protests in Tehran. The stance comes amid heightened global scrutiny of U.S. foreign policy under President Trump’s renewed security posture.
- Over 150,000 protesters took part in Iran's January 9 demonstrations across 32 cities.
- At least 27 fatalities and 400 arrests reported in aftermath of protests.
- U.S. deployed two additional F-35 squadrons to Qatar and UAE, raising regional aircraft count to 187.
- Oil prices rose to $92.40 per barrel on January 15 amid supply concerns.
- Iranian rial depreciated 12% to 168,000 per U.S. dollar in one week.
- China continues to uphold its $400 billion energy cooperation agreement with Iran.
China's foreign ministry reiterated its position on January 14, 2026, condemning any unilateral military intervention in Iran, stating that such actions would undermine regional stability and violate international law. The statement, issued during a routine press briefing, marked China’s clearest public rejection of force since the wave of anti-government demonstrations began in Tehran on January 9, when an estimated 150,000 protesters took to the streets across 32 cities, according to independent civic monitoring groups. The protests, sparked by economic hardship and political repression, have led to over 400 reported arrests and at least 27 fatalities, according to local human rights organizations. In response, the U.S. Department of Defense announced a 30-day increase in military readiness in the Middle East, including the deployment of two additional F-35 fighter squadrons to bases in Qatar and the UAE—bringing the total number of American combat aircraft in the region to 187. Financial markets reacted swiftly: the S&P 500 dropped 1.8% on January 15, while oil prices surged to $92.40 per barrel on concerns over supply disruptions. The Iranian rial fell to 168,000 per U.S. dollar, a 12% depreciation from the previous week, reflecting deepening economic instability. Meanwhile, the Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.9% as investors sought safe-haven assets amid geopolitical uncertainty. China’s diplomatic push is part of a broader strategy to position itself as a neutral arbiter in Middle Eastern disputes. Beijing has maintained trade relations with Iran, including a $400 billion energy cooperation agreement signed in 2022, and continues to send high-level envoys to Tehran for bilateral talks. Global markets now closely monitor diplomatic developments, with analysts noting that any escalation could trigger a spike in global energy prices and disrupt supply chains linked to the Strait of Hormuz.