Security in Neutrality

Chinese Engagement In the Middle East and the Red Sea Crisis

Bibliographic Data

ID12413979
AuthorsChristopher K Colley (0000-0002-6793-1796, Dr. Colley is assistant professor of international security studies at the United States Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. Dr. Goodman is assistant professor of international security studies at the United States Air War College. Opinions, conclusions, and recommendations expressed or implied within are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Air University, the United States Air Force, the Department of Defense, or any other US government agency., corresponding author), Joshua R Goodman (0000-0002-4015-7753, Dr. Colley is assistant professor of international security studies at the United States Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. Dr. Goodman is assistant professor of international security studies at the United States Air War College. Opinions, conclusions, and recommendations expressed or implied within are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Air University, the United States Air Force, the Department of Defense, or any other US government agency.)
Year2024
Volume31
Issue3
Pages18-36
Publication date2024-08-22
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueMiddle East Policy (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1061-1924 • E-ISSN: 1475-4967
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/mepo.12766
OpenAlexW4401831576
LanguageEN
Citations received4

China's interests have expanded rapidly in the Middle East since the turn of the century, and it is now the leading trade partner for many states in the region. The unrest sparked by the war between Israel and Hamas, including the Red Sea shipping crisis that imperils global trade, threatens those interests. The perceived absence of deep Chinese participation in trying to resolve these emergencies contrasts with previous peacekeeping efforts and raises questions about Beijing's willingness to take part in global‐security initiatives. This article analyzes variations in Chinese decision making on the use of force and diplomacy in the Middle East. Based on publicly available data, an examination of sources in English and Chinese, and interviews previously conducted in China, we develop a three‐pronged typology that explains Chinese strategic behavior in the region: military engagement, perceived free riding, and diplomacy. The article contributes to the literatures of security studies, Chinese foreign and military policy, and the security of the Middle East

Ancient history · Economics · Middle East · Neutrality · Political economy · Political science · Global Peace and Security Dynamics · History · International Relations and Foreign Policy · Law · Middle East and Rwanda Conflicts

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