China’s Reported Weapon Deal with Iran Amid Tensions

A Chinese company is reportedly planning to supply Iran with portable anti-air missile systems, aiming to rebuild their air defenses after United States and Israeli strikes. This report from Reuters follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement that Chinese leader Xi Jinping assured him Chinese firms won’t arm Tehran.

Chinese-Iranian Relations and Weapon Supply Deal

China, a political ally of Iran, has condemned U.S.-Israeli strikes since their onset but has limited its involvement. Engagement has been diplomatic and indirect. Reuters and other media report China provided Iran with satellite imagery of U.S. military targets around the Gulf.

Details of the Missile System Deal

Delivery Within Weeks: Report

Iran signed a $60-70 million contract with Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment for 300-400 man-portable air defense systems (MANPAD), anonymous sources confirmed due to the sensitive nature of the sale. The Hong Kong company is acting as an intermediary. The systems include Chinese-made FN-16 and QW-12 missile systems.

Beijing-based Zhong Qing Bao Shang Group did not comment on the deal, and Chinese and Iranian foreign ministries have not responded to Newsweek’s inquiries.

The shipment is planned from Urumqi in Xinjiang, China to Pakistan, then to Iran. Consequently, the details, including routing, remain uncertain.

Official Responses and Diplomatic Context

China’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the report as baseless. Pakistan’s military denied involvement, calling the report false. A White House official stated foreign aid to Iran doesn’t enhance their threat to Americans.

Xi’s Assurance and Diplomatic Efforts

During Trump’s visit to Beijing, Xi pledged not to provide weapons to Iran, including Chinese companies. Trump wrote in a Truth Social post on July 24 that Russia’s Putin also assured Moscow wouldn’t supply Tehran with weapons.

The U.S. paused aerial strikes against Iran to foster diplomatic solutions after 13 days of responding to Iranian attacks in the Gulf. The two nations agreed to ceasefire and pursue peace, facilitated by Pakistan.

Chinese-made systems like the C-802 cruise missile are used by Iran and Yemen-based Houthis, targeting Saudi tankers due to ongoing regional conflicts. In February, Iran considered a deal for China’s CM-302 supersonic anti-ship missiles.