Beijing Hosts Iranian Diplomat Ahead of U.S.-China Summit, Signaling Leverage

China hosted a senior Iranian diplomat, reiterating calls for a Middle East ceasefire, in a move widely read as a signal to Washington ahead of a U.S.-China summit. The meeting underscores Beijing's diplomatic engagement with Tehran and its potential role as a mediator, though concrete outcomes remain unclear. This development highlights China's growing influence in Middle East affairs and its strategic positioning vis-à-vis the U.S.