China may supply advanced air defence systems to Iran amid fragile ceasefire deal with US: Report

US intelligence indicates that China is preparing to deliver new air defence systems to Iran in the coming weeks, according to three people familiar with recent assessments, CNN reported. The development comes as a fragile ceasefire holds between Iran and the United States after weeks of conflict.

The reported transfer is seen as potentially provocative, especially as Beijing has positioned itself as a supporter of de-escalation in the conflict and previously said it helped facilitate ceasefire efforts. It also comes ahead of planned US-China high-level engagement, including a potential meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month.

According to CNN sources, the systems involved are shoulder-fired surface-to-air missiles, known as MANPADS, which were used during the conflict and pose a threat to low-flying US military aircraft. Two sources said China may be routing the shipments through third countries to conceal their origin.


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A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington denied the allegations, saying China “has never provided weapons to any party to the conflict” and calling the information untrue. The spokesperson also urged the US to avoid “baseless allegations” and “sensationalism,” and said China continues to support efforts aimed at de-escalation.

CNN reported that intelligence assessments suggest Iran may be using the ceasefire period to replenish military capabilities with the help of foreign partners. One source said China is seeking to maintain ties with Iran while avoiding direct confrontation with the US and Israel, balancing strategic influence with plausible deniability.

The MANPADS under discussion are defensive systems, which Chinese officials could argue distinguishes them from offensive weapons. However, US officials have raised concerns about their impact on aerial operations in the region.

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CNN sources also noted that Chinese companies have continued supplying dual-use technologies to Iran despite sanctions, while stopping short of direct government weapons transfers. A direct supply of air defence systems would mark a significant escalation in Beijing’s involvement.

Russia has also been accused of supporting Iran with intelligence sharing during the conflict, while Iran has provided drones to Moscow for use in Ukraine.

The developments come at a sensitive diplomatic moment, with ongoing US-China engagement and preparations for high-level talks between Washington and Beijing.