China’s engagement in the Middle East gained momentum this month following the assassination of Hamas’s political leader, Ismail Haniyeh. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson condemned the attack, warning it could destabilize the region further. At a UN Security Council session, China’s permanent representative, Fu Cong, labeled the assassination a “blatant attempt to sabotage peace efforts” and a violation of the UN Charter’s principles.
As violence continued in Gaza, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed support for Arab states, emphasizing the necessity of a permanent cease-fire and suggesting the formation of a joint international force.
Chinese criticism of Israel intensified following airstrikes that killed over ninety Palestinians, which the Israeli Defense Forces claimed included Hamas and Islamic Jihad members. China’s foreign ministry described these strikes as “heinous,” asserting that all victims were civilians and stressing that targeting civilians violates international humanitarian law. After Israel killed senior Fatah commander Khalil al-Maqdah in Lebanon, China urged its citizens to leave the country promptly.
Strengthening Ties with Iran
In a related development, China and Iran celebrated fifty-three years of diplomatic relations. Wang Yi spoke with Iran’s acting foreign minister, reaffirming Iran’s strategic partnership with China and expressing support for Iran’s sovereignty and security.
Military Collaboration with Iran
Significantly, reports emerged that Iran is seeking partnerships with Chinese satellite firms to enhance its surveillance capabilities. This collaboration could bolster Iran’s intelligence operations against American, Israeli, and rival Arab military sites, potentially improving missile targeting and early attack detection.
Economic Engagement in Saudi Arabia
Early in August, a Fujian Province delegation visited Saudi Arabia to align with the kingdom’s Vision 2030, fostering cooperation in new energy and digital economy sectors. A media business accelerator was launched, and an investment agreement was signed to build a thermoplastics plant in Fujian.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund also signed memoranda with six Chinese financial institutions worth $50 billion, aimed at increasing capital flow between the countries. In mid-August, China Offshore Oil Engineering Company completed a major offshore oil platform for Saudi Aramco, expected to produce 300,000 barrels daily.
China is not only focused on fossil fuels; it also signed a $972 million contract for a solar power plant in Saudi Arabia, expanding its energy cooperation projects.
Cultural and Economic Ties with the UAE
The UAE strengthened its ties with China as well, with Cosco Shipping docking a vessel in Dubai carrying nearly 5,000 electric vehicles. Additionally, Dubai hosted a business forum in Beijing, marking its first occurrence outside the UAE.
Turkey’s Position on the SCO
Following Turkish leader Recep Erdoğan’s attendance at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, Turkey’s defense minister reiterated the nation’s commitment to NATO while exploring engagement with the SCO. Chinese-owned Ganfeng Lithium also announced plans to establish a lithium battery factory in Turkey, reflecting growing economic ties.