Opportunities and Challenges of the Resistance Axis and the Neo-Muslim Brotherhood Axis in China's New Foreign Policy in West Asia

Document Type : Original Article from Result of Thesis

Authors

1 a

2 OIL

Abstract
Amid structural transformations in the international system and the rise of emerging powers, China's foreign policy in West Asia faces increasing complexity. This study, using an analytical approach within the framework of the Neighborhood Policy theory, examines China's engagement with two influential regional blocs—the Resistance Axis led by Iran and the Neo-Muslim Brotherhood Axis led by Turkey. Findings reveal that the Resistance Axis offers strategic opportunities for Beijing by promoting anti-Western multilateralism, expanding security cooperation, and enhancing China's influence in the Islamic world. However, international sanctions against Iran pose economic constraints and risk confrontation with the United States. Conversely, the Neo-Muslim Brotherhood Axis, with its geopolitical reach into Europe and Eurasia, complements China's strategic interests, yet challenges such as intra-regional rivalries and ideological tensions—especially with the Resistance Axis—may undermine China's regional coherence. The study concludes that China's foreign policy in West Asia requires a careful balance of economic, security, and geopolitical interests, where active neutrality, strengthened multilateral diplomacy, and avoidance of ideological entanglements can sustain China's influence in the region.

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