Iran and North Korea in the US-China Equation in the Indo-Pacific Region

Abdullah, Abbas Jaber; Dakhel, Mohammed Sahib

doi:10.63677/jqlap.2025.166368.1480

Iran and North Korea in the US-China Equation in the Indo-Pacific Region

https://doi.org/10.63677/jqlap.2025.166368.1480

Volume 17, Issue: 1 part 1
Winter 2026

Pages 895-816

AL-Qadisiya Journal For Law and Political Sciences

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Abbas Jaber Abdullah ¹

Mohammed Sahib Dakhel ²

¹ Al-Muthanna University, College of Education for Humanities

² Al-Muthanna University, College of Applied Medical Sciences

Abstract

This article explores the roles of Iran and North Korea in shaping the dynamics of U.S.–China relations within the Indo-Pacific region, which has emerged as the core arena of contemporary geopolitical rivalry. The study investigates how China employs its relationships with these two states as indirect instruments of strategic leverage against U.S. policies, particularly in the realms of regional security, energy, and nuclear proliferation. It further examines the American approach toward Tehran and Pyongyang, focusing on Washington’s attempts to curtail their influence through containment strategies and reinforced regional alliances. Using a descriptive and analytical methodology, supported by academic literature and official documents, the paper interprets the interaction between major powers and active regional actors. The findings reveal that Iran and North Korea function as strategic balancing assets utilized by China to enhance its geopolitical influence vis-à-vis the United States, whereas Washington perceives both as persistent threats necessitating containment and deterrence within the broader context of the Indo-Pacific power competition.