Trump expresses disappointment over potential Chinese arms sales to Iran

President Donald Trump stated he would be "quite disappointed" if Chinese President Xi Jinping violated a personal commitment not to arm Iran. This statement emerged as Trump also revived accusations that US health official Anthony Fauci had helped China evade scrutiny over COVID-19's origins. Fauci, who led the US pandemic response, testified before a Senate committee during this period.

Reuters reported that Iran is anticipated to receive 300 to 400 Chinese-made, shoulder-fired air-defense missile systems within weeks. The report suggested these weapons would be transported from western China via Pakistan, with a deal valued between $60 million and $70 million. Beijing had previously dismissed similar reports of supplying weapons to Iran as "completely groundless" ahead of Trump's planned visit in May.

When questioned about the latest report, Trump described it as "surprising." He reiterated Xi's assurance, stating, "he told me very strongly he wouldn’t partake. But he knows I’d be quite disappointed." The US president's remarks highlight ongoing tensions regarding international arms sales and their potential impact on regional stability, particularly concerning Iran.

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he told me very strongly he wouldn’t partake. But he knows I’d be quite disappointed