Iran FM heads to China as Beijing moves to mediate end to war

Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi conducted a second visit to Beijing for talks with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, signaling continued strategic alignment and coordination between Tehran and Beijing. China has publicly urged US-Iran de-escalation, pledged to defend Iran's legitimate interests, and called for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The timing of these meetings, ahead of a Xi-Trump summit, suggests Iran is leveraging its relationship with China to influence or hedge against US pressure, with China positioning itself as a mediator.