Brussels, March 4 (NationPress) The support of Russia and China for Iran amidst the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East is characterized by strategic ambiguity, aimed at demonstrating resistance against Washington, yet restrained enough to avoid escalation into conflict, according to a recent report.

The 'European Times' highlighted that while Iran benefits from arms and diplomatic support, it remains isolated on the battlefield, with China and Russia deliberately steering clear of direct confrontation with the United States.

Both Beijing and Moscow are cautious to avoid military engagements with the US, as they are concerned about tensions escalating into a broader global conflict.

“When the United States and Israel initiated extensive military operations against Iran, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and pledging an ongoing campaign, many speculated whether Iran’s significant allies – China and Russia – would step in. The reality is clear: despite their declarations and weapons transfers, neither Beijing nor Moscow can effectively assist Iran in the face of direct US military action,” the report stated.

“Geography plays a crucial role. Russia and China are thousands of miles away from Iran, lacking the logistical capability to project sustained military strength into the Persian Gulf. Unlike the US, which has numerous bases and naval forces in the region, neither Moscow nor Beijing can secure reliable transport routes. Any movement of forces would require traversing contested airspace or waters controlled by US and allied forces,” it emphasized.

The report characterized China’s support as more symbolic than strategic, indicating that Beijing has provided drones and missile systems and engaged in discussions regarding hypersonic technology with Iran. However, these actions represent minor transfers and do not include the deployment of Chinese troops, complicating Iran’s ability to counter the formidable US strike force.

Meanwhile, with its military engaged in the conflict in Ukraine, Russia has limited capacity to open another front against the US. While its arms sales to Iran are legitimate, the likelihood of direct intervention is virtually nonexistent.

The report further asserted, “The relationship between China, Russia, and Iran is transactional rather than sacrificial. They are willing to provide arms, issue criticisms, and leverage the crisis to challenge Washington. However, when US missiles strike, Iran cannot count on assistance. Factors such as geography, military overextension, political prudence, and economic self-interest ensure that Beijing and Moscow will remain on the sidelines – vocal, perhaps, but ultimately reluctant to confront the United States.”