China on Monday strongly rejected reports that it had supplied or was planning to supply weapons to Iran as “baseless smears,” as US intelligence reports raised concerns over possible military transfers.
US intelligence assessments indicate that China is preparing to deliver new air defence systems to Iran within the next few weeks, according to CNN. The report said there are indications that China may be attempting to route the shipments through third countries to conceal their origin.
The systems under discussion are shoulder-fired anti-air missiles, known as MANPADS, which can pose a serious threat to low-flying military aircraft. China has also said it helped support efforts to broker a fragile ceasefire between US and Iran.
Responding to the reports, foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said, “China has always adopted a cautious and responsible attitude towards the export of military items, implementing strict controls in accordance with its own export control laws and regulations and its international obligations. We oppose baseless smears or malicious association,” during a news briefing.
This also comes as US President Donald Trump on Sunday threatened China of “staggering” new tariffs if it provides military assistance to Iran.
“I've heard reports, and I don’t always trust news reports, claiming that China is giving shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles. I’m not sure that’s accurate. I doubt they would do that because I have a relationship and I think they wouldn't do that, but maybe they did a little bit at the beginning, but I don't think they would anymore,” he said during an interview with Fox News.
He reiterated the warning, saying, “If we catch them doing that, they get a 50 percent tariff, which is a staggering, that's a staggering amount.”
