The China-Russia partnership is a highly consequential geopolitical alignment driven by a shared goal of countering U.S. hegemony and reshaping the international order into a multipolar system. While not a formal alliance, this relationship is strengthened by Russia's increasing economic reliance on China following Western sanctions, which allows Beijing to leverage its influence. Policymakers should note that while the partnership projects deep solidarity (as seen in high-level summits), it remains complex and limited by mutual mistrust and competing strategic interests. This enduring alignment poses a significant challenge to U.S. interests and requires continued diplomatic vigilance.
Assessing the Air Campaign After Three Weeks: Iran War By the Numbers
English Summary
After three weeks, the air campaign in the Iran War shows a sustained U.S. strike tempo, adapted to use less expensive munitions, while Iranian drone and missile launches have significantly declined but persist, notably targeting Gulf states' energy facilities. Gulf allies report high interception rates of 80-90%, but their interceptor inventories are reportedly dwindling. The ongoing conflict signals continued regional instability, raising critical questions about Iran's remaining military capabilities and the potential for a U.S. military operation to secure the Strait of Hormuz.
中文摘要
伊朗戰爭爆發三週後，空中行動顯示美軍維持了穩定的打擊節奏，並已調整策略以使用成本較低的彈藥。與此同時，伊朗的無人機與飛彈發射量雖顯著下降但仍持續進行，且主要針對海灣國家的能源設施。儘管海灣盟國報告攔截率高達 80% 至 90%，但據報其攔截彈庫存正趨於枯竭。此一持續衝突預示區域局勢將長期動盪，並引發各界對伊朗剩餘軍事能力，以及美軍是否會採取軍事行動以確保荷姆茲海峽安全等關鍵議題的關注。
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