US intelligence has indicated that China may be preparing to send new air defence systems to Iran in the coming weeks, according to reports citing people familiar with recent assessments.
The systems are believed to be shoulder-fired anti-air missiles, known as MANPADS. These weapons were used during the recent five-week conflict and had posed a threat to low-flying US military aircraft.
Officials now believe they could be used again if the current ceasefire does not hold.
The ceasefire between the United States, Israel and Iran came into effect earlier this week after weeks of fighting that began on February 28. The conflict disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipping.
Sources said Iran may be using this pause in fighting to rebuild its weapons systems with help from foreign partners. There are also indications that China could route any shipments through third countries to hide their origin.
US President Donald
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