Or maybe whoopsie that on reflection led the authorities (authoritarians) that slight population hit and sharing with the world (western Europe, north America specifically) had more benefits than drawbacks.
Another possibility is Iran, working closely with China labs, snuck some out for jihad but spilled some on themselves, then same conclusions as above.
Either way, The Joker Smiles, The Devil Dances.
Lots of Persian (and prc chinese) Biochemistry foreign students have taken up American seats at major USA top universities. Many Iranians are descendants of our friends back when we were allies but not as many since the 90’s.
“Another possibility is Iran, working closely with China labs, snuck some out for jihad but spilled some on themselves, then same conclusions as above.”
Maybe a more virulent and deadly virus?