When Iran and Israel plunged into a 12-day military conflict starting June 13, the world expected strong reactions from Iran’s long-time allies — Russia and China. Instead, what followed was a pattern familiar in global geopolitics: statements, calls for restraint, but no real support.

So, what really happened — and what does it tell us about Iran’s so-called strategic partnerships with Beijing and Moscow?

China: All Words, No War

China's reaction was swift but symbolic:

• It condemned Israel’s attack on Iran’s sovereignty.

• President Xi Jinping spoke to Putin.

• Foreign Minister Wang Yi called his Iranian counterpart and later officials in Egypt and Oman.

• China co-introduced a draft UN resolution (alongside Russia and Pakistan) condemning the attack on Iranian nuclear sites — though it had no chance of passing due to a guaranteed US veto.

But what did China not do?

• No military support to Iran.

• No drone or missile parts.

• No emergency funding or logistics.

• No naval presence or deterrence show in the Gulf.

As analyst Craig Singleton put it:
“Just words to placate Tehran without upsetting Riyadh or inviting US sanctions.”

Why the Reluctance?

• Economic stakes: Iran supplies 80–90% of its oil exports to China (about 1.2 million barrels/day).

• Middle East volatility threatens China's energy security.

• China seeks stability, not conflict, especially with the US, Israel, and Gulf nations.

• China's influence in the region is largely commercial, not military.

• Beijing prefers discounted oil over disrupted trade.

Despite a 25-year strategic pact and Iran’s membership in China-backed SCO and BRI, when missiles began flying, China stepped back.

Russia: Strategic Ally, Silent Partner

Much like China, Russia:

• Spoke vaguely about de-escalation.

• Co-sponsored the UN resolution.

• Stayed diplomatically active, but militarily inactive.

Despite deep defense ties with Iran, including:

• Drone and missile cooperation.

• Military exercises like Maritime Security Belt 2025 (with China and Iran).

• A shared desire to weaken US dominance…

…Russia did not move a finger during the Iran-Israel conflict.

Why?

• Russia is already overstretched in Ukraine.

• Opening a new front or supporting Iran militarily could provoke direct confrontation with the US or undermine Russia's relationships in the Arab world.

• Like China, Russia wants regional influence, not escalation.

So, Are Iran’s ‘Friends’ Real?

Yes — but only on paper.
Beijing and Moscow:

• Want Iran as a counterweight to the West.

• Value Iran in economic corridors, energy routes, and anti-US coalitions.

• But when it comes to military support during crisis, Iran stands alone.