China's Role in Saudi-Iran Deal Raises Concerns for US

China's growing economic influence in the Middle East has allowed it to play a mediating role in the conflict between Saudi Arabia and Iran, two countries that have been hostile to each other for decades. The US, which has failed to bridge the gap between the two powers, has downplayed China's mediating role. China's influence in the region is based mainly on economics, as it is the most important trading partner for both Iran and Saudi Arabia. China is increasingly perceived in the Gulf not only as an economic partner, but also as a political and even security partner.