In a recent analysis, Richard Haass highlights the emergence of a new 'Gang of Four' comprising China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, which stands in opposition to the US-led world order. This coalition is characterized by military, economic, and political support among its members, aiming to reshape global dynamics [d71e4db4].
The original Gang of Four was a group of senior Chinese officials associated with the Cultural Revolution, but today's version reflects a broader geopolitical alignment. Notably, China solidified its partnership with Russia by signing a 'no limits' friendship agreement prior to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 [d71e4db4]. This agreement has facilitated increased cooperation, with China importing Iranian oil and providing subsidies to North Korea, while Iran supplies missiles to Russia [d71e4db4].
As this coalition strengthens, the United States faces significant challenges. Haass argues that the US must continue to provide military support for Ukraine and take measures to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Additionally, he emphasizes the need for the US to modernize its nuclear arsenal and repair its defense industrial base to effectively counter this emerging alignment [d71e4db4].
The strategic implications of this new Gang of Four are profound, as they seek to undermine US influence in both Europe and the Indo-Pacific. Effective counter-alignment exists within US alliances in these regions, but the growing cooperation among these four nations poses a serious challenge to the established international order [d71e4db4].