China is preparing to deliver new air defense systems to Iran in the next few weeks, according to a report citing sources with knowledge of US intelligence.
The move would be “provocative,” CNN reported, considering China played a major role in brokering the fragile cease-fire deal between Iran and the US earlier this week.
Beijing is working to route shipments through third countries to hide the backroom trade — which involves shoulder-fired anti-air missile systems known as MANPADs, multiple US intelligence sources told CNN.
China, however, denied the claims, with a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington telling the outlet, “China has never provided weapons to any party to the conflict; the information in question is untrue.”
“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.
President Trump is expected to visit China in early May for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
