China May Supply Air Defense Systems to Iran
US intelligence says China may supply Iran with air defense systems, including MANPADS, while Beijing denies the accusations.
US intelligence believes that China may supply Iran with new air defense systems in the coming weeks, including man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS). This was reported by CNN citing informed sources.
According to the sources, the systems in question could pose a threat to low-flying US aircraft. It is suggested that deliveries may be carried out through third countries to conceal their origin. It is also noted that direct shipments of such systems by the Chinese government would represent a serious escalation beyond the supply of dual-use technologies, which Chinese companies continue to provide to Iran despite sanctions.
Chinese officials have rejected these accusations. The Chinese embassy in Washington stated that Beijing adheres to its international obligations and described the claims as unfounded. The Chinese side also called on the United States to refrain from accusations and to contribute to de-escalation.