Trump Claims China Agreed to Halt Arms Sales to Iran

The United States, under President Trump, has asserted that China has agreed to cease supplying weapons to Iran. This claim, made via Trump's Truth Social account and echoed by White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, suggests a significant diplomatic development in the ongoing tensions surrounding Iran. Trump framed this as a personal assurance from President Xi Jinping, highlighting his upcoming visit to Beijing as a moment of confirmation.

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They have agreed not to send weapons to Iran. President Xi will give me a warm hug when I get there in a few weeks.

Adding to the pressure, the US Treasury Department has issued warnings to two Chinese banks, threatening secondary sanctions if they are found to be facilitating financial transactions for Iran. This move underscores the US strategy of leveraging economic pressure to influence international behavior regarding Iran's arms procurement. The Treasury's involvement, with Secretary Scott Bessent detailing the 90% of Iran's oil purchased by China, aims to connect China's economic ties with Iran to the broader geopolitical landscape.

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President Xi assured President Trump that they are not supplying weapons to Iran during the conflict, and that assurance was conveyed to the president.

Beijing, however, has pushed back against these claims. A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs dismissed reports of Chinese military support for Iran as "pure fabrication." China maintains its adherence to international regulations regarding military exports, asserting a responsible and prudent approach. Furthermore, China has criticized the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, deeming it "dangerous and irresponsible" and a factor that could escalate regional confrontations.

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Two Chinese banks have received letters from the US Treasury Department. I will not name the banks, but we told them that if it is proven that Iranian money is flowing through their accounts, we will impose secondary sanctions on them.

This situation highlights the complex interplay between US foreign policy objectives, China's economic interests, and regional stability in the Middle East. While the US seeks to isolate Iran and curb its military capabilities, China navigates its economic partnerships and regional security concerns. The differing perspectives on the Strait of Hormuz blockade and arms sales reveal the ongoing strategic competition between the two global powers, with Iran's actions serving as a focal point.

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China has always acted prudently and responsibly in the export of military products, and implements strict controls in accordance with Chinese laws and regulations on export controls and applicable international obligations.