Caught between Iranian collapse, Gulf instability, and a closed Strait of Hormuz, Beijing faces a geopolitical dilemma with no neat solution

The UK and France said on Monday they would stay out of Trump's plan to blockade Iranian ports, in a move likely to anger Trump and increase strains in the alliance.

Sources tell Al Majalla that Iran was able to build a rapport with US Vice President JD Vance in Islamabad, but sensed his hands were tied in the presence of Trump's son-in-law and close friend

Both Beijing and Moscow have pragmatic reasons to help Tehran raise the cost of US action. Each sees value in offering limited but meaningful support.

The IRGC doesn't just defend the state, it runs it. To wave the white flag wouldn't just mean giving up its arms; it would mean dismantling the organisation and its patronage networks.

Moscow saw oil and gas revenue double in April and was happy to see US resources diverted away from Ukraine. But an extended war could have carried serious costs for the Kremlin.

Washington weighs the desire to avoid a protracted war with offsetting the appearance of defeat, as Tehran debates whether to consolidate gains before conditions shift or press perceived advantages

We explore how the composition and structure of the government have changed since the US assassinated Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on 28 February

Questions abound regarding the appointment, health, and role of Mojtaba Khamenei, who replaced his father on 9 March, a week after he was assassinated

Islamabad is humming with behind-the-scenes diplomacy to turn this tentative pause into lasting peace.