When Israel attacked Iran nearly two weeks ago, the Chinese government, a longtime friend of Iran, jumped into action — at least, when it came to words. It condemned the attacks. Its leader, Xi Jinping,

China, heavily dependent on Middle East oil, has tried to cast itself as a peacemaker. But in the Israel-Iran war, Washington emerged as the real power broker.

When Israel attacked Iran nearly two weeks ago, the Chinese government, a longtime friend of Iran, jumped into action at least, when it came to words. It condemned the attacks. Its leader, Xi Jinping,