Iran’s defense minister has traveled to diplomatic and economic ally China on his first reported trip abroad since a 12-day clash with Israel that briefly dragged the US into a new regional conflict.

China called for a ceasefire. But despite its recent history of mediation in the region, its role was limited this time.

By attacking Iran, President Trump has shown he is willing to engage in a distant war. This raises questions in Beijing about what he might risk for Taiwan.

President Trump said he wouldn’t stop China from purchasing oil from Iran, signaling he might ease the U.S.’s “maximum pressure” campaign on Tehran. “They’re in the oil business. I mean, I could stop it if I wanted,