NO COMMENT FROM BEIJING—BUT THE MESSAGE IS CLEAR China has issued no formal response so far. However, the state-backed Global Times quickly published commentary citing Chinese experts who argue that the United States and Israel have long pursued regime change in Iran—and that recent negotiations were likely just a diplomatic smokescreen. Previously, Beijing has urged Washington to exercise restraint, warning that further escalation serves no one’s interests. China also has a strategic stake in keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, as it is a critical route for its energy imports from the Middle East.(*Walter Bloomberg)