China And Russia Vie For Influence As Middle East Crisis Escalates

China and Russia have hardened their positions toward the conflict in Gaza in recent days, as the war between Israel and Hamas aggravates existing geopolitical tensions. This new Middle East crisis could also benefit both Beijing and Moscow by diverting the attention of their main global rival: the United States.

With that in mind, here’s a breakdown of what’s happened so far and what’s at stake in Israel, Gaza, and beyond. Finding Perspective: Shortly after Hamas’s attacks, China struck a neutral tone that angered many…