When a conflict you are an observer to is so nuanced with so many changing "sides" that you have trouble knowing how to align, what tiebreakers do you use to determine who best to side with?

Option 3: I remember I don't have to take sides?

If you don't know enough to pick a side, then don't. If the topic comes up, take that opportunity to learn something.

"Does this have anything to do with me?"

Most cases, the answer is no and I simply have to not care about it.

Look for kindness. Look for a group trying to build something for others, not just tear something down or personal gain.

I just ignore it until either things become clear or it blows over

I don't typically take sides unless one is very clearly in the wrong or one makes the very regrettable choice of fucking with me after being warned.

Kindness > assholes usually works for me if I can't take the time to learn all the nuances but feel like I want to form an opinion.

Just don’t choose a side. That’s how I view topics on China, I seek the truth but I recognize state propaganda on both sides.