Donald Trump just made a stunning claim about China and Iran that has intelligence officials going silent
President Donald Trump announced that China has “agreed” not to send weapons to Iran on Wednesday. China has long denied allegations of sending weapons to Iran but has still been buying sanctioned oil even during the war.
“China is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz. I am doing it for them, also – And the World. This situation will never happen again. President Xi will give me a big, fat, hug, when I get there in a few weeks,” Trump announced.
The argument for the blockade is that it would economically pressure Iran, as the United States will effectively trap even Iranian ships that carry oil. But in doing so, oil and fuel prices are expected to spike globally. It’s a strategy that comes at the cost of the world’s suffering.
“We are working together smartly, and very well! Doesn’t that beat fighting?? BUT REMEMBER, we are very good at fighting, if we have to – far better than anyone else!!!” the post ended. Despite the threat, Trump’s statement aligns with China’s denial.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun was asked by People’s Daily on the matter. The Chinese media outlet inquired about allegations of China providing military support to Iran. The spokesperson brushed the question off, saying that relevant claims are “purely fabricated.”
“China always acts prudently and responsibly on the export of military products, and exercises strict control in accordance with China’s laws and regulations on export control and due international obligations,” Guo said.
But Trump also cautioned the United States about imposing tariffs against China based on the reports. Guo added, “If the U.S. goes ahead with the tariff hikes on China on the basis of these accusations, China will respond with countermeasures.”
Is China supporting Iran’s military campaign?
What brought upon the denials from China is a report from CNN. The story alleged that Beijing is preparing to deliver air defense systems to Iran. To avoid detection, it’s speculated that China will be rerouting the delivery of shoulder-fired anti-air missile systems known as MANPADs to third-party countries. If this were true, the MANPADs would pose a threat to low-flying US military aircraft.
It would be in the international community’s best interest for China not to be involved in escalating the crisis. For now, it seems that the economic giant is satisfied with maintaining cordial relations with the Trump administration. If China’s disclaimers were to be taken, does that mean that the country doesn’t fund Iran’s war?
Traditional support would involve arming Iran. Putting the United States as an example, the country directly provides Israel with foreign military aid. Moreover, the United States has helped fund Israel’s defense systems.
It’s no secret that Iran’s biggest trading partner is China. Even during the early stages of the war, China was still buying 90% of Iranian oil despite the US sanctions imposed on the country. If there’s proof of the country providing support, it’s done so economically by purchasing oil. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps officially takes a portion of Iran’s oil exports. China purchases Iranian oil through “teapot” refineries in Shandong Province to evade US sanctions.
So, does China provide Iran military support? Not in the traditional sense, and China could argue that where Iran spends its revenue from oil is an internal matter. But indirectly, as an ally and consumer of Iranian oil, they do. Trump’s statement means little if China is capable of skirting around sanctions.
(featured image: The White House)
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