US intelligence: China preparing air defense supplies for Iran

According to three sources familiar with recent intelligence assessments, the assistance may include man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS), which can pose a threat to low-flying military aircraft and were reportedly used during the recent conflict between Iran and the United States.

It is noted that deliveries could be routed through third countries in order to conceal the true origin of the shipments.

There is also a possibility that Iran may use the ceasefire period to replenish its weapons stockpiles with the help of external partners.

In Beijing, these allegations are denied. A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington said that China "has never provided weapons to any party to the conflict."

"As a responsible major country, China consistently fulfills its international obligations. We urge the U.S. side to refrain from making baseless allegations, maliciously drawing connections, and engaging in sensationalism; we hope that relevant parties will do more to help de-escalate tensions," the spokesperson said.

At the same time, US sources suggest that China continues to supply Iran with dual-use technologies that enable the development of military systems, although direct arms transfers would represent a significant escalation.

The sources also noted that the Chinese side may argue that air defense systems are defensive rather than offensive in nature, thereby distinguishing its support from that provided to Russia.

Meanwhile, the sources claim that China has maintained contact with the Iranian side through intermediaries, including Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt, attempting to push Tehran toward a ceasefire agreement with the US.

At the same time, Beijing has publicly called for a swift end to the war. China’s Foreign Ministry has stressed that the conflict poses a threat to the global economy and energy security, and has urged "sincerity" in pursuing a peaceful resolution.