Bonus: China warns against ‘law of the jungle’ after US-Israeli strikes on Iran

China has warned against the ‘law of the jungle’ after US-Israeli strikes on Iran, but will Iran's biggest oil buyer take any tangible measures? The conflict in the Middle East is widening, with missile and drone strikes hitting Iran, Israel and neighbouring countries, and Washington is now warning its campaign could continue for weeks. China is often viewed as Tehran’s key international backer. It buys the majority of Iran’s crude oil, signed a sweeping 25-year strategic agreement in 2021, and has brought Iran into the Beijing-backed BRICS grouping. So how is Washington’s biggest strategic rival responding now that Iran’s government is under direct attack from the US? In this episode, host Mariko Oi is joined by Asia Specific’s Bill Birtles, a former China correspondent and James Dorsey of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies to explore whether the China-Iran relationship is as deep as many assume and what the conflict means for China’s oil interests and long-term strategy. Asia Pacific, unpacked by those who know it best. Bringing you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends. Hear Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people.Whether it is the latest on trade between the US and China, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we find out what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter. Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi, alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. Episodes of Asia Specific are also available on YouTube, here: https://bit.ly/4iJyeVt Get in touch: asiaspecific@bbc.co.uk