We now speak with Dr. Victor Gao, Vice President of the Center for China and Globalization, joining us from Beijing.
Host:
Dr. Gao, always a pleasure to speak with you. We've never discussed the state of relations between China and Iran before, so let’s begin there. How would you describe the current ties between Beijing and Tehran?
Dr. Gao:
Thank you for having me. China highly respects Iran as a sovereign nation with territorial integrity. The two countries engage on equal terms. China does not recognize the extraterritoriality of any nation’s self-imposed sanctions against others, including those against China or Iran. We cooperate with Iran in all areas, including energy. If a third country has an issue with this, the problem lies with them and their unilateral policies.
Regarding the war initiated by Israel against Iran, China's position is clear: Israel’s attack on Iran's nuclear facilities is a violation of international norms and a serious threat to world peace.
Host:
Israeli officials claim Iran is close to building, or may already possess, nuclear weapons and frequently calls for Israel’s destruction. They argue their actions are acts of preemptive self-defense. What's your response?
Dr. Gao:
It is highly hypocritical for Israel, which itself possesses nuclear weapons in violation of international norms, to accuse Iran. The Middle East would be better off if Israel disarmed. If Israel keeps threatening others with nuclear weapons, it's a major issue for global peace. The international community must address this.
Host:
President Xi Jinping expressed deep concern about Israel’s military operations against Iran. How dangerous is the current situation?
Dr. Gao:
China always worries when wars break out. This surprise attack by Israel resembles Japan's Pearl Harbor assault in WWII. It came while the U.S. and Iran were still discussing nuclear negotiations. Israel’s attack, including the assassination of Iranian officials, is a grave matter. The risk of escalation—potentially even into nuclear war—is real. Iran might now feel justified to develop nuclear weapons, which would destabilize the region further. It’s time for Prime Minister Netanyahu to stop this madness.
Host:
On Tuesday, China accused President Trump of “pouring oil on the fire” in this conflict. Why?
Dr. Gao:
Evidence suggests a joint U.S.-Israel operation. Even if the U.S. claims to be uninvolved, there’s likely deep coordination. If the U.S. is not involved, they should prove it—and more importantly, use their influence to stop Israel. Letting Israel misuse the U.S. for misinformation or regime change in Iran is unacceptable. If the U.S. gets entangled, the long-term consequences could be severe.
Host:
Wouldn't a prolonged U.S. engagement in the Middle East benefit China by allowing it more strategic freedom?
Dr. Gao:
No. China benefits from global peace and stability. Any damage to peace, prosperity, or stability anywhere in the world is a loss for China and mankind. China doesn't seek conflict—it promotes peace.
Host:
President Trump hinted on social media that the U.S. knows where Iran’s Supreme Leader is hiding but won’t take him out "for now." How would China react if Iran’s leader were assassinated?
Dr. Gao:
Assassinating a head of state or military leader is never acceptable. It violates global norms and decency. It may also backfire. At a time when Israel has launched an undeclared war, such comments from the U.S. president are dangerously irresponsible.
Host:
You mentioned earlier the cordial ties between China and Iran. If Iran were to experience regime change—say, a pro-Western government replacing the current one—would that be a strategic loss for China?
Dr. Gao:
Not necessarily. China views events through a long-term lens—10, 100, even 500 years. We aren’t swayed by day-to-day developments. Israel's war is aggression. Iran is defending its sovereignty. If the U.S. joins Israel, they will be judged by history. We must prioritize ending the war and seeking peace. China supports a nuclear-free Middle East.
Host:
The U.S. and its allies have begun using a new acronym: “CRINK” – China, Russia, Iran, North Korea. What do you think of that?
Dr. Gao:
Acronyms don’t change facts. China is the world's largest trading nation with over 140 countries. It champions peace and free trade. Painting China as an enemy is false. The U.S. must not mistake China’s intentions. We have goodwill for the American people. Together, China and the U.S. can solve many problems. War between them is not an option—it must never be.
Host:
Could China or Russia intervene militarily if the U.S. joins Israel against Iran?
Dr. Gao:
A war imposed on Iran is unjust. If other countries join Israel, it could provoke a broader response. Iran is a large, powerful nation with spiritual influence across the Shia world. Escalating the war risks more devastation. It must be stopped immediately. China urges restraint from all sides. We prefer negotiations, not war.
Host:
Final thoughts on the “CRINK” label?
Dr. Gao:
It’s a distraction. China is a stabilizing force. Anyone suggesting otherwise is misrepresenting reality. China seeks peace, prosperity, and stability. The U.S. should work with us—not against us. This war, launched by Netanyahu for possibly personal reasons, must end. He won't escape justice at home or globally.
Host:
Dr. Victor Gao, thank you very much for joining us. Always a pleasure.
Dr. Gao:
Thank you for having me.
