Fresh U.S. strikes on Iran near the Strait of Hormuz have triggered a sharp reaction from China, with Beijing urging all sides to honour the ceasefire and restore peace “at an early date.” The warning came as reports claimed Tehran wants Chinese guarantees before accepting any future U.S. nuclear deal and may even move enriched uranium stockpiles to China. At the same time, Iran’s I.R.G.C. claimed it shot down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone and forced an F-35 fighter to retreat after entering Iranian airspace. Is Beijing preparing for a deeper role in the Iran crisis?
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