Israel Urges China to Put Economic Pressure on Iran

Geopolitical Risk & Diplomacy - Israel urges China to leverage its influence over Iran to curb its military and nuclear ambitions, emphasizing China's unique position due to Iran's economic reliance on Chinese oil procurement [1][6] - China, as a P5 Security Council member and IAEA participant, is encouraged to facilitate a diplomatic agreement where Iran abandons its nuclear military program in exchange for international benefits [11][7] - A settled agreement on Iran's nuclear program could lead to sanctions relief and economic prosperity for Iran, contingent on Iran making the correct decision to negotiate [10] Economic Leverage & Sanctions - China buys approximately 90% of Iran's oil, providing significant economic leverage to influence Iran's regional activities [11] - Revenues from Iranian oil sales are allegedly diverted to "malign activities" such as funding proxies like Hezbollah and Houthis, as well as the nuclear and ballistic missile programs [13][14] - Sanctions relief and positive trade relations could stabilize Iran's economy if it abandons its nuclear military ambitions [22] Iranian Threat & Regional Stability - Iran's pursuit of a military nuclear program is viewed as a threat to regional peace, particularly to Israel, with Iranian leaders openly calling for the "annihilation of the Jewish state" [3][16] - Destabilizing the Iranian economy could further destabilize the region, highlighting the need for a diplomatic solution that addresses Iran's nuclear ambitions and promotes economic stability [22] - The international community's focus should be on preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, given its aggressive rhetoric and actions [20]