Beyond the trade war: How China undercuts US sanctions in Iran and North Korea, and why it matters

The U.S. has put pressure on countries like Iran and North Korea with economic sanctions. For these sanctions to work and produce meaningful negotiations and agreements, other countries have to also agree to and enforce sanctions. China, however, is undercutting U.S. efforts in both Iran and North Korea.

Since President Trump pulled out of the Iran deal, he has moved to reimpose sanctions, and with the goal to “build a global coalition to put pressure on Iran.” Iran isn’t feeling as much pressure as it might, however, as China has continued to strengthen its ties with Tehran.