US intelligence indicates China is preparing weapons shipment to Iran amid fragile ceasefire, sources say

The national flags of China and Iran fly in Beijing's Tiananmen Square on February 14, 2023. - Thomas Peter/Reuters/File

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. intelligence assessments indicate that China is preparing to deliver new air defense systems to Iran within the coming weeks, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter.

The reported development comes at a highly sensitive moment, as Beijing recently positioned itself as a key broker in securing a fragile ceasefire that temporarily halted hostilities between Iran and the United States earlier this week. At the same time, U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to travel to China next month for high-level talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

According to intelligence sources, Iran may be using the current ceasefire window to rebuild and strengthen its military capabilities, with assistance from foreign partners. Two sources indicated that China could be routing the shipments through third-party countries in an effort to conceal their origin.

The systems in question are believed to be shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missile systems, commonly known as MANPADS. These portable weapons pose a significant asymmetric threat, particularly to low-flying aircraft, and were reportedly used during the recent five-week conflict. Their reintroduction could heighten risks if the ceasefire collapses.

China has denied the allegations. A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington stated that Beijing has not supplied weapons to any party involved in the conflict, calling the reports inaccurate and urging the United States to avoid what it described as “baseless accusations” and escalating rhetoric.

Beijing has maintained that it has been actively working to de-escalate tensions and promote peace since the conflict began.

During a recent press conference, President Trump noted that a U.S. F-15 Eagle shot down over Iran last week may have been struck by a shoulder-fired, heat-seeking missile. Iranian officials have claimed the use of a “new” air defense system but have not disclosed further details, leaving questions about its origin.

If confirmed, a direct transfer of MANPADS from China to Iran would mark a significant escalation in Beijing’s level of involvement. While Chinese firms have previously been linked to the sale of dual-use technologies to Iran, a government-backed weapons transfer would represent a new phase of support.

With tensions still high and diplomatic efforts ongoing, the situation remains fluid as global powers navigate a fragile balance between conflict and containment.