Explainer: The Secret War Behind the War — What China and Russia Actually Want

China is buying more Iranian oil than any other country on Earth — but if the Strait of Hormuz closes, their entire economy seizes up. Russia needs oil prices high to keep their budget alive, but they're terrified that an American victory over Iran puts them next in the crosshairs. Two superpowers, opposite fears, and one miscalculation away from something far worse than anyone is reporting. Everything you need to understand China, Russia, and the Iran War and why it explains the war happening right now. New to the conflict? Start here, then subscribe for daily briefings.