Fan Hongda
Director, China-Middle East Center, Shaoxing UniversityArticles by Fan Hongda
Politics
Iran war: The unnecessary war that strengthened Iran
In this unnecessary war with Iran, the US now has no choice but to negotiate and make compromises. Iran may even emerge with its regional standing strengthened. To go into the US-China summit with the best hand, President Trump needs to settle the Iranian question quickly. Academic Fan Hongda explains.
Fan Hongda
08 May 2026
Politics
China’s quiet brokerage: Can Beijing make the US-Iran truce stick?
After the two-week ceasefire in the Iran war ends, even if there is a negotiated agreement, the war may not be be over. Lasting peace in the region would mean stabilising Israel-Iran relations and letting countries like China play a bigger role. Chinese academic Fan Hongda shares his assessment.
Fan Hongda
09 Apr 2026
Politics
The illusion of decapitation: Why killing Iran’s leaders strengthens the regime
Attempts to target Iran’s leadership have backfired. Tehran has hardened, while Russia and China are gaining influence. The US and Gulf Cooperation Council states face strategic setbacks, as regional instability persists. Chinese academic Fan Hongda shares his views.
Fan Hongda
25 Mar 2026
Politics
China’s illusion of influence in the Middle East
Talk of China eclipsing America in the Middle East is fading fast. The Gaza war and renewed US pressure on Iran are restoring Washington’s primacy — exposing how thin Beijing’s influence is, unless it turns trade into tangible partnerships, argues Chinese academic Fan Hongda.
Fan Hongda
20 Feb 2026
Politics
China’s Iran dilemma: Why Beijing can’t fully embrace Tehran
As Iran seeks new backing after the Gaza war, China faces a strategic choice. What follows is less an alliance than a careful balancing act, defined by limits Beijing is unwilling to cross. Chinese academic Fan Hongda analyses the situation.
Fan Hongda
16 Dec 2025
Politics
Netanyahu vs TikTok: How China became a scapegoat for Israel’s image crisis
Faced with growing international pressure over the war in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has turned to blaming foreign powers — including China — for fuelling global criticism. But as Chinese academic Fan Hongda argues, targeting Beijing, especially over platforms like TikTok, risks further isolating Israel diplomatically and offers no real strategic gain.
Fan Hongda
23 Sep 2025
Politics
Iran-Israel war: Lessons and hopes from a Chinese academic
While Israel, the US and Iran have all declared wins after the 12-day Iran-Israel war, Chinese academic Fan Hongda rues the massive losses that the three parties have in fact suffered. In the aftermath of conflict, negotiations between Tehran and Washington are still the most effective means to resolve Iran’s predicament.
Fan Hongda
08 Jul 2025
Economy
China’s initiatives in the Middle East and Israel
When interacting with Middle Eastern countries, China often emphasises the importance of civilisation and development, as well as sympathy for the suffering of the people there, says academic Fan Hongda. This approach resonates with the people of the Middle East, and may offer a valuable development option in today’s uncertain world.
Fan Hongda
10 Jun 2025
Politics
Why China should welcome a US-Iran thaw
How should China navigate the potential easing of US-Iran relations under the Trump administration? According to Chinese academic Fan Hongda, Beijing has no reason to be overly concerned — after all, a more amicable US-Iran relationship could be beneficial to China.
Fan Hongda
22 Apr 2025
Politics
Chinese academic: Can the US actually take over Gaza?
US President Donald Trump provoked global shock and concern when he expressed a desire to take over Gaza and resettle displaced Palestinians elsewhere. Why did he make such a suggestion and what does he hope to accomplish by taking over Gaza? Chinese academic Fan Hongda tells us more.
Fan Hongda
26 Feb 2025
Politics
China’s efforts at Palestinian reconciliation commendable, but effectiveness yet to be seen
Chinese academic Fan Hongda notes that China’s efforts to broker consensus between 14 factions in Palestine are a good step forward which could help pave the way for direct negotiations to be launched between Israel and a united Palestine.
Fan Hongda
31 Jul 2024