US warns Beijing against sending air defence systems to Iran, China denies claim

US President Donald Trump has warned that China would face “big problems” if it supplies weapons to Iran, following US intelligence concerns that Beijing could secretly route air defence systems to Tehran through third countries. The remarks come amid fears that a fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran could unravel.

Speaking before departing the White House, Trump cautioned that any weapons transfer to Iran would carry serious consequences. The warning followed intelligence reports suggesting Iran may receive new Chinese air defence systems within weeks, potentially routed through intermediaries to obscure their origin. Washington believes such a move would significantly escalate tensions, especially as both sides maintain a heavy military presence near the Strait of Hormuz.

China firmly rejected the allegations. In a statement, the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States said Beijing has never provided weapons to parties in the conflict and urged Washington to avoid “baseless allegations.” Despite this, US officials remain concerned that Iran may seek advanced systems such as man-portable air defence systems to counter low-flying aircraft.

Iran has not confirmed any such deal. However, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps recently claimed it had deployed a new air defence system that successfully targeted US aircraft. Trump added that the United States remains in “very deep negotiations” with Iran, but said it “makes no difference” to him whether a final deal is reached, noting that US forces are also working to clear possible mines in the region to ensure safe navigation.