China’s Mediation Efforts in the Middle East: A New Player in Regional Peace Initiatives?
Perceptions: Journal of International Affairs, vol.30, no.1, pp.126-147, 2025 (TRDizin)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 30 Issue: 1
- Publication Date: 2025
- Journal Name: Perceptions: Journal of International Affairs
- Journal Indexes: Index Islamicus, PAIS International, Political Science Complete, Worldwide Political Science Abstracts, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
- Page Numbers: pp.126-147
- Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
In parallel with its growing economic power and diplomatic influence in the international system, China has increasingly adopted a more active role as a mediator in the Middle East. China’s mediation in the diplomatic normalization process between Saudi Arabia and Iran in particular has marked the emergence of a new phase in regional power dynamics. Unlike traditional Western mediation models, Beijing has focused on conflict resolution by adopting a neutral approach and prioritizing economic cooperation. In addition, China’s position on the Israeli-Palestinian issue highlights its effort to balance between political neutrality and economic interests. This article examines China’s peace initiatives in the Middle East through historical and contemporary examples. The Saudi-Iran agreement demonstrates China’s strategic approach within the frameworks of international law and diplomacy, while the Israeli-Palestinian issue questions Beijing’s capacity to maintain neutrality within the region’s complex network of relationships. The article explores the long-term contributions of China’s efforts to regional stability and peace processes and addresses the question of how China’s emerging role as a mediator may reshape traditional power dynamics in the Middle East.