While the U.S. Focuses on Iran, Russia and China See Strategic Gain

"Russia has earned billions due to rising global energy prices and loosened U.S. restrictions on Russian oil, possibly rescuing Russia's weakened national budget. This provides critical funding to its war effort against Ukraine at a time when sanctions were having an impact."

"China is likewise benefiting strategically. Much like Ukraine, Iran is a live laboratory for China on U.S. military capabilities, drone defenses, strength of alliances, global logistics and supply chains under pressure and, most critically, political resolve."

Russia and China are concerned about Iran's regime but are using the situation to gain strategic advantages at the expense of the U.S. They prefer a prolonged U.S.-led conflict that strains American military resources and alliances. Russia benefits from rising energy prices and reduced U.S. pressure, aiding its war efforts in Ukraine. Both nations are enhancing their military capabilities and intelligence operations, using Iran as a testing ground for U.S. responses, while China gains from discounted Iranian oil and insights into U.S. military operations.

Read at The Cipher Brief