President Trump has touched down in Beijing for a conference with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, where the outcomes surrounding the Iran conflict, Taiwan's arms deal, and American energy costs are all interlinked. US representatives are urging China to exert pressure on Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while experts suggest that Beijing will likely request the cancellation of the $14 billion Taiwan arms sale in return. Should Trump acquiesce, US security pledges to Taiwan might be compromised; if he declines, China may refrain from applying pressure on Iran, resulting in oil prices remaining above $100 per barrel and keeping gas prices high for American consumers throughout the summer.
