China Eyes Unraveling Alliances in Sudan as Islamists Pledge Support for Iran

Chinese intelligence agencies have adopted a cautious and pragmatic stance toward Iranian interference in the Sudanese army after the United States designated the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization within the Sudanese military on March 6, 2026.

“Chinese intelligence agencies have adopted a cautious and pragmatic stance toward Iranian interference in the Sudanese army following the United States’ designation of the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization within the Sudanese military on March 6, 2026”

Modern Diplomacy

Beijing has opted for backseat diplomacy to safeguard its investments, recognizing that this interference could complicate the regional landscape and increase tensions with the West, but it does not consider it a red line and remains content to monitor its interests without direct intervention, given its partnership with Iran.

Modern Diplomacy

Beijing's analysis emphasizes that Iranian interference could prompt some Arab states to reconsider their support for Sudan, a shift that could diminish Tehran’s influence and serve China’s long-term strategic interests.

On March 9, 2026, the United States designated the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist Entity with the intention of listing it as a Foreign Terrorist Organization on March 16, 2026.

The moves and U.S. pressure are linked to accusations that Brotherhood-affiliated fighters, such as the Al-Baraa bin Malik Brigade, received training and support from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps in their confrontation with Washington and Tel Aviv.

Modern Diplomacy

The Sudanese army confirmed that these Brotherhood-affiliated groups do not officially represent it, while Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan warned that the armed forces would not allow any entity to exploit its identity for ideological purposes.

As arrests within the army expanded, the Brotherhood-aligned leader in the army, Naji Abdullah, was detained after appearing in military uniform pledging to deploy the Al-Bara’ bin Malik brigades and drones to defend Tehran.

The army vowed to take legal action against these statements and to protect its relations with Gulf states and its security interests.

Sudan had restored diplomatic relations with Tehran in 2023.

Beijing generally adheres to non-interference and emphasizes stability to protect its oil and development investments, preferring political solutions and avoiding direct military involvement.

“Chinese intelligence agencies have adopted a cautious and pragmatic stance toward Iranian interference in the Sudanese army following the United States’ designation of the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization within the Sudanese military on March 6, 2026”

Modern Diplomacy

China does not typically join Western terrorist designations and supports legitimate Sudanese institutions, backing measures that promote stability and reduce chaos.

China views Iranian expansion into Sudan with suspicion, fearing it could destabilize the region and threaten energy routes and oil supplies for its investments.

When asked about supporting the Sudanese army or the RSF, China avoids direct military backing and opts for diplomatic engagement at the UN and economic support for the side that guarantees stability.

Beijing prefers the Sudanese state and its traditional army to safeguard its interests but remains committed to non-intervention.

Overall, China aims to prevent the conflict from internationalizing and to maintain stable, investment-friendly conditions.

Leaked Sudanese intelligence documents reveal internal concerns that pro-Iranian rhetoric from some Brotherhood-aligned fighters within the Sudanese army could portray the country as aligned with the Iranian axis, jeopardizing Gulf, European, and Western economic support.

International powers such as the European Union, China, and Russia are closely monitoring the regional conflict as Iran seeks to use Sudan as a platform for influence in Africa.

Modern Diplomacy

Following statements by Brotherhood-aligned volunteers and commanders claiming readiness to defend Iran, the Sudanese army announced on March 4 that it would take legal action, while officials distanced the institution from these statements.

Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan warned against exploiting the army identity for political or ideological agendas as the Sovereignty Council consolidates its stance.

The crisis reflects diplomatic calculations to protect Gulf relations and avoid widening the conflict, even as divisions persist within Sudan's official and public opinions.

Sudan had restored diplomatic relations with Tehran in 2023.

China’s cautious, non-interventionist stance is part of a broader regional assessment, affecting its reaction to the US designation and its implications for Chinese interests.