Top US Military Official Concerned about Iran-China-Russia Alliance

The head of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), General Michael Kurilla, expressed concerns on Thursday over the deepening alliance between Iran, China, and Russia.

During a hearing before the House Armed Services Committee, General Kurilla emphasized his worries regarding the "global implications" of this trilateral partnership. 

"Collectively, Iran, Russia, and China are strengthening their relationships and fostering a chaotic landscape favorable to their exploitation," he said. "The ramifications of this partnership will have global implications."

General Kurilla further highlighted Iran's continued ability to manufacture drones and export oil under US sanctions, with China serving as the primary buyer of the sanctioned oil - cheaper than the market price. 

"What we see is Iran reliant on China and Russia is reliant on Iran. Iran sells 90 percent of its oil, all US sanctioned, to China," Kurilla said. 

This growing partnership between Iran, China, and Russia has been evident in recent years as they have forged strategic relations across various sectors. 

Earlier in March, the three nations conducted joint naval drills in the Gulf of Oman, marking their fifth such exercise since 2019. 

The Central Command defends US interests across 20 nations spanning the Middle East, Central and South Asia, as well as the surrounding waterways.