Russia is providing Iran with intelligence about the locations and movements of American troops, ships and aircraft, according to multiple people familiar with US intelligence reporting on the issue,

China has perfected the role of concerned onlooker as the Middle East conflict spreads across the region. With no direct role in the conflict and some 4,200 miles (6,800 kilometers) away from the action,

China imports roughly half of its oil from the Middle East.

Donald Trump demands Iran’s unconditional surrender, saying the US will not pursue any deal with Tehran unless it fully capitulates and new leadership emerges.

The day the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran, China waited several hours before taking its first official position.

One of Iran's closest allies and the ​biggest buyer of its oil, China has so far kept silent about the business and trade impact of the attacks, though it condemned the U.S.-led operation as "unacceptable" and called for restraint.

By Jonathan Saul and Marwa Rashad LONDON, March 5 (Reuters) - China is in talks with Iran to allow crude oil and Qatari liquefied natural gas vessels safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz as the U.

Beijing has condemned the U.S.-backed strikes on Iran, a close partner. Yet with trade talks looming, it is unlikely to risk a rupture with Washington.

Iran's military strikes reportedly threaten shadow oil networks, potentially raising energy costs for Russia and China amid ongoing international sanctions.