Amid rising tensions over alleged arms transfers, US President Donald Trump has warned China it would face “big problems” if it supplies weapons to Iran. The warning comes as the US–Israel war with Iran remains on pause under a ceasefire following six weeks of fighting. Pakistan-mediated talks in Islamabad ended without a breakthrough, fuelling concerns that hostilities could soon resume.
On Saturday, Trump answered a reporter’s question regarding reports that China might supply air defense systems to Iran, potentially via a third country, despite ongoing peace talks in Islamabad.
Fresh intelligence cited by CNN suggested that China may supply weapons to Iran in the coming weeks, even as Tehran uses the current pause in fighting to strengthen its air defence systems. Responding to a question on the report, Trump said, "If China does that, China is going to have big problems."
The allegations against China come after it claimed a major role in brokering the fragile ceasefire between Iran and the US earlier this week. The allegations are coming shortly after China positioned itself as a key player in brokering the ceasefire between Iran and the US earlier this week.
Beijing has rejected claims of supplying weapons or military technology to Iran, calling the reports “disinformation.” While the US has warned China against closer ties with Tehran, Donald Trump has also threatened tariffs on countries aiding Iran.