Washington, United States. US intelligence suggests China may be weighing financial aid to Iran, along with spare parts and missile components, CNN reported, citing three people familiar with the matter.
Reported assessment and energy concerns
CNN reported that Beijing has so far stayed out of the conflict. China relies heavily on Iranian oil and has reportedly been pressing Tehran to keep the Strait of Hormuz open to shipping.
One source told CNN that China’s potential support would be restrained by its own interests, saying: “China is more cautious in its support. It wants the war to end because it endangers their energy supply.”
Official responses and denials
The CIA declined to comment, CNN reported. CNN said it had contacted the Chinese embassy in Washington for a response.
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth pushed back on the notion of outside involvement on Wednesday, telling reporters that Russia and China are “not really a factor” in the war with Iran.
What impact could any Chinese support for Iran have on the conflict and regional shipping routes?