Tariffs on China is an idle threat, says CFR's Charles Kupchan

• China benefits from US distraction in the Middle East but is negatively impacted by global economic disruption and high oil prices due to the Iran war.
• Trump's threat of 50% tariffs on Chinese goods is considered an 'idle threat' due to its potential global economic impact and Trump's desire for a trade deal.
• The US blockade of Iran's ports is an 'extremely dangerous situation' with an uncertain Iranian response, potentially leading to a full-scale war.

The discussion focuses on China's complex position regarding the Iran war, balancing geopolitical gains from US distraction against economic risks, and the potential impact of Trump's threatened tariffs on China. The expert views the tariffs as an 'idle threat' but highlights the dangerous situation in the Strait of Hormuz, which could escalate into a full-scale war.