Beijing has strongly denied reports that it supplied missile defence systems to Iran in the days following the recent ceasefire with Israel, labelling the claims as “false and misleading”.
In a firm statement issued to Israel Hayom, the Chinese Embassy in Israel dismissed allegations that it had delivered advanced surface-to-air missile systems, possibly the HQ-9, to Tehran after the 24 June ceasefire between Iran and Israel.
“The content of this report is incorrect,” the statement read. “China firmly opposes the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems, and consistently emphasises strict enforcement of export control and non-proliferation regimes.”
The Embassy also reiterated that China does not export military systems to nations engaged in active armed conflict.
“We impose strict oversight on all dual-use exports,” the statement continued. “As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, we take a responsible approach toward military-related exports.”
Allegations from Arab Sources
The denials come in response to a report by Middle East Eye, which cited unnamed Arab diplomatic sources claiming that China had transferred missile defence systems to Iran in return for shipments of crude oil. The report suggested the delivery was part of a wider effort by Tehran to rebuild its air defence capabilities following heavy damage sustained during its 12-day confrontation with Israel.
During the conflict, Israeli forces reportedly gained control of key Iranian airspace, including areas over western Iran and the capital, Tehran. Iran’s missile defence infrastructure, which has traditionally relied on Russian-made systems such as the S-300 and various domestic adaptations, was said to have been significantly weakened.
Strategic Implications
Among the systems allegedly transferred was the HQ-9, a Chinese long-range surface-to-air missile platform that has seen combat use in previous regional skirmishes, most notably between India and Pakistan. Some reports claim the system was effectively used to shoot down advanced Rafale fighter jets during those clashes, although these claims remain unconfirmed.
Sources quoted by Middle East Eye further alleged that both Washington and its regional Arab allies were aware of Iran’s moves to restock its defences. While the report did not specify exact quantities, it implied that the weapons transfer was substantial and strategically timed.
China-Iran Relations Under the Microscope
China is currently Iran’s largest oil customer, receiving nearly 90 per cent of the Islamic Republic’s crude exports. The two nations have deepened their strategic ties in recent years, with previous cooperation on military technology and ballistic missile components drawing the attention of Western intelligence agencies.
Despite this close relationship, China has consistently attempted to maintain a neutral stance on the Iran-Israel conflict. While Beijing’s foreign ministry has condemned Israeli airstrikes, President Xi Jinping has avoided provocative language, instead urging restraint and a return to diplomatic dialogue.
Competing Narratives Raise Global Concerns
The conflicting reports from Middle East Eye and the Chinese Embassy highlight growing international concerns over Iran’s rearmament efforts and the expanding role of Chinese military influence in the Middle East.
As geopolitical tensions continue to simmer, the nature of Beijing’s defence exports, and its true position in ongoing regional conflicts, will likely remain under close global scrutiny.
