Russia and China have criticised the US-Israeli war on Iran that has killed over 1,000 people, calling it a violation of international law while signalling diplomatic support without military involvement.
Putin denounces Khamenei assassination
Russian President Vladimir Putin described the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as a “cynical violation of all norms of human morals.” China’s Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi also urged restraint, telling his Israeli counterpart that “force cannot truly solve problems” and calling for avoidance of further escalation.
Russia and China jointly requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to address the crisis.
Strategic partnerships, not military alliances
Russia and Iran signed a comprehensive strategic partnership in January 2025 covering trade, military cooperation, intelligence, and infrastructure projects. Joint naval drills were conducted as recently as February 2026, shortly before the US-Israeli attacks.
However, the treaty contains no mutual defence clause. Former Russian International Affairs Council director Andrey Kortunov explained that unlike Russia’s mutual defence treaty with North Korea, the agreement with Iran does not obligate Moscow to intervene militarily. Russia is prioritising diplomacy and mediation, particularly regarding its conflict with Ukraine, making direct military action in Iran unlikely.
China’s pragmatic approach
China and Iran signed a 25-year cooperation agreement in 2021, linking Iran to the Belt and Road Initiative and strengthening energy and trade ties. Experts note the relationship is pragmatic and economic, with clear limits on military involvement.
Beijing is expected to focus on diplomacy and crisis management, seeking to calm tensions with the US and Gulf countries while protecting its own economic interests. Around 87% of Iran’s crude oil exports go to China, illustrating the economic significance of the relationship, though Tehran remains a relatively minor partner in China’s global trade.
Diplomatic support without military escalation
Analysts emphasise that while Moscow and Beijing strongly criticise the US-Israeli actions, neither country intends to deploy weapons or troops. Both countries aim to protect strategic interests, mediate the conflict, and maintain influence in the Middle East without engaging in direct military confrontation.
Also read: Putin threatens to cut Europe’s gas supply over Iran war
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