Despite reaching a delicate two-week ceasefire agreement, concerns persist that the conflict between the US and Iran is far from resolved. US military presence remains near Iran, while reports indicate that Tehran is set to receive new air defense systems from China in the coming weeks, as per CNN.
China, which had largely stayed quiet during the month-long conflict, played a last-minute role in facilitating the ceasefire between the US and Iran, raising eyebrows in Washington and potentially impacting President Trump’s upcoming discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Denying the claims, the Chinese embassy in Washington refuted allegations of providing weapons to any party involved in the conflict, urging restraint and de-escalation from all sides.
China and Russia have been crucial allies for heavily sanctioned Iran, offering vital assistance to help navigate Western sanctions.
While Russia has supported Iran indirectly by sharing intelligence aiding in targeting US assets in the Gulf, China’s involvement in the Middle East conflict was limited until Pakistan sought its intervention, leading to Iran agreeing to the ceasefire. President Trump also acknowledged China’s role in the process.
Although China officially ceased direct weapon sales to Iran after 2005, recent intel suggests a potential supply of shoulder-fired anti-air missile systems, commonly known as MANPADs, to Iran. These systems are speculated to have been utilized by Iran in recent incidents targeting US military aircraft.
Amid doubts over the stability of the ceasefire, the US is wary that Iran might exploit the truce period to replenish its weapons arsenal, further widening the trust gap between the nations.
Reports suggest that China may use third-party channels to deliver the air defense systems to Iran, a common practice to mask the origin of arms shipments and evade scrutiny.
In addition to potential Chinese support, Iran is expected to acquire Verba man-portable short-range surface-to-air missile launchers from Russia, a move that could escalate tensions in the region.
WHAT IS CHINA’S PLAN?
Within US security circles, it is believed that while China aims to solidify its alliance with Iran, it is cautious about direct involvement in the conflict to safeguard its interests.
Given China’s heavy reliance on Iranian oil imports, the nation is keen on maintaining stability in its relations with Iran. The potential supply of MANPADs could be justified by China as defensive in nature.
While China continues to provide technology aiding Iran’s weapon development, direct supply of weapons systems would