Iran’s Powerful Partners Face a Test Under U.S. Pressure

Iran has spent years deepening strategic and military ties with China and Russia, positioning both powers as key partners in countering U.S. influence.

But as pressure from Washington grows under Donald Trump, analysts cited by The Wall Street Journal say those relationships appear limited when it comes to direct military backing.

Recent joint naval exercises between Iran and Russia — with plans for drills involving China — signal alignment and coordination. However, analysts say Beijing and Moscow are unlikely to intervene militarily if the United States launches strikes against Iran, reflecting a pragmatic approach driven by broader geopolitical priorities.

For China, openly supporting Tehran risks complicating relations with Washington and key Gulf states, even as Beijing remains Iran’s largest oil customer and an important economic lifeline. Russia faces similar calculations, balancing its partnership with Iran against other strategic interests and ongoing conflicts.

Iran, meanwhile, is working to rebuild missile stockpiles, air defenses and military capabilities following recent confrontations that weakened parts of its arsenal.