Israel Calls on China to Pressure Iran Over Military and Nuclear Threats

In a bold diplomatic message, Israel has urged China to use its economic leverage over Iran to curb Tehran’s growing military and nuclear ambitions. According to Clash Report, Ravit Baer, Israel’s Consul General in Shanghai, stressed that China is uniquely positioned to influence Iran due to its economic dependence on Chinese oil purchases.

China Holds Economic Power Over Iran

Ravit Baer’s comments come at a time of escalating regional tensions. Speaking in Shanghai, Baer said, “China is the only one capable of influencing Iran. Iran would collapse without China buying its oil.”

Her statement points to the deep economic ties between Tehran and Beijing. Despite U.S. sanctions, Iran has continued selling oil, mostly to China. That revenue is a key source of funding for Iran’s military operations and nuclear development programs.

By highlighting this dependence, Israel is appealing directly to China’s strategic interests and global responsibilities.

A Message Aimed at Curbing Escalation

Israel’s diplomatic push reflects growing concern over Iran’s regional behavior, including its support for armed groups and its pursuit of advanced nuclear capabilities. Israeli officials have warned that Tehran is approaching a nuclear weapons threshold.

The call to China is part of a wider campaign to apply international pressure. Israel hopes that Beijing, which maintains cordial ties with both Iran and the West, can act as a mediator or restraining force.

Baer’s remarks also reflect the view that China’s global influence is no longer limited to trade and infrastructure. As Iran’s main oil buyer and economic partner, China could slow, or potentially halt, Iran’s ambitions by reducing its purchases or attaching political conditions.

Why This Matters Now

The timing of this message is significant. Iran has been increasing its uranium enrichment levels and expanding its ballistic missile capabilities. The country is also accused of arming proxy groups across the Middle East, including in Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen.

At the same time, global talks on Iran’s nuclear program have stalled, and the U.S. appears reluctant to re-engage diplomatically without concessions. That leaves a vacuum, one that Israel hopes China can fill, using its economic muscle rather than military force.

Baer’s comments reflect this shift. “China doesn’t need to send troops or weapons,” said a Tel Aviv-based analyst. “It just needs to close the tap on Iran’s oil money.”

China’s Strategic Silence

So far, China has not responded publicly to Israel’s call. While Beijing has shown interest in peacebuilding, as seen in its recent mediation between Saudi Arabia and Iran, it continues to prioritize energy security and non-interference diplomacy.

However, with the global spotlight shifting toward China’s role in shaping international norms, this could be a defining moment. Whether Beijing chooses to act, or remain neutral, will signal how far it’s willing to go as a global power.

Final Thoughts

Israel’s appeal to China is a strategic move aimed at avoiding direct conflict while addressing a pressing security threat. By targeting Iran’s economic lifeline, Israel is putting the spotlight on China’s rising diplomatic responsibility.

As global tensions deepen, the balance of power may depend less on military alliances, and more on who controls the money.