China steps up Iran war diplomacy

Key Points:

• China has intensified diplomatic efforts regarding the Iran war, proposing a five-point peace plan with Pakistan and opposing a U.N. proposal to use force to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
• The U.S. remains largely uninterested in China's mediation, viewing it as more symbolic than substantive, with officials describing China's efforts as "performative" and focused on messaging rather than concrete action.
• China is somewhat insulated from the conflict's economic impact due to diversified energy sources but is concerned about the long-term effects of a protracted war on its export-driven economy.
• Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has actively engaged with multiple regional and global leaders, seeking support for China’s peace proposal and opposing military interventions in the Strait of Hormuz.
• The U.S. response to China’s plan has been muted, with officials describing it as vague and lacking a clear roadmap to peace, while a watered-down U.N. proposal to authorize defensive action in the strait awaits a delayed vote.