President Xi Jinping is entering his summit with President Trump with added leverage from the war in Iran, positioning China as a potential broker while the United States is militarily stretched. Beijing has highlighted its ties with Tehran and its economic influence, signaling that it could help stabilize energy flows and encourage negotiations, even as it avoids direct involvement in the conflict. Analysts in China argue that the crisis underscores American limits and strengthens Beijing’s hand.

Beyond Iran, Xi’s central aim is Taiwan. He is seeking a softening of American support for the island, potentially through delayed or reduced arms sales or statements opposing Taiwanese independence. Any willingness by Washington to discuss such matters with Beijing would mark a significant shift in long-standing policy and could deliver a symbolic and strategic win for China.

More broadly, China wants to redefine its relationship with the United States as one between equals while securing stability to buy time for its own development. Beijing is pressing for an extension of the trade truce and relief from tariffs, sanctions, and export controls, even as it strengthens domestic technology and economic resilience. Limited economic concessions, such as purchases of American goods, may be offered as the price for a steadier and more predictable relationship.