Relations between China and the Assad regime
The report highlights that China maintains diplomatic, economic, and limited security ties with Syria’s Assad regime. Since 2016, China’s special envoy to Syria has focused on providing political support to the Assad regime, tackling the civil war, humanitarian aid, reconstruction, and finding political solutions to terrorism. Although no significant Belt and Road infrastructure projects have been developed in Syria, China has signed an agreement with Syria to include it in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2022.
Projecting the image of a peacemaker – Department of Defense observations
After the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict, China has sought to position itself as a peace promoter in the region, aligning itself with the Global South in support of the Palestinian cause. Through press releases and international platforms, China has repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and negotiations aimed at a “two-state” solution to the Palestinian crisis. In November 2023, China placed Gaza at the forefront of Security Council proceedings as its rotating chair of the United Nations Security Council. However, the Chinese government has avoided taking direct diplomatic or military action in the conflict.
A critical view of China’s position
The Pentagon report alleges that China is directly criticizing U.S. support for Israel’s response in the Gaza Strip and fueling the conflict. China claims that Israel’s military actions in the Gaza Strip go beyond its right to self-defense.
China also links the Red Sea shipping crisis to Israel and criticizes U.S. military activities in the region, believing they worsen regional security.
China’s challenge in the Red Sea
The report said China has refused to support the US-led international coalition aimed at protecting shipping in the Red Sea, leading to higher shipping costs. Many international shipping companies have begun to avoid the Red Sea and choose alternative routes. Despite its strong ties with Iran, Beijing has been unable to pressure the Houthi rebels to end their attacks on international shipping in the region.
