Trump 'very disappointed' if China supplies Iran with missiles

Iran is expected to receive its first batch of up to 400 Chinese-made shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missile launchers within weeks, according to a Reuters report. This acquisition represents Iran's most significant procurement of air defense capabilities since the escalation of conflict with Israel and the United States.

The deal reportedly includes 300 to 400 units of Man-Portable Air-Defense Systems (MANPADS), specifically the Chinese-made QW-12 and FN-16 missiles. These infrared-guided, shoulder-launched surface-to-air missile systems are designed to target low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and drones. They can be rapidly deployed to protect military installations, energy infrastructure, and other sensitive locations.

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That would be very surprising. I mean, these things do happen, but that would be very surprising.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump reacted to the report, expressing that he would be "very disappointed" if China were to supply weapons to Iran. Trump recalled a conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who had previously assured him that China would not be involved in the conflict. Trump stated, "He told me very clearly that he would not get involved, but he knew I would be quite disappointed."

Bloomberg noted that Trump had previously voiced concerns about China potentially selling weapons to Iran during the conflict. He mentioned that Xi Jinping had informed him in a letter in April that Beijing would not provide weapons to Iran. While China may not be directly shipping weapons, it has been reported to supply dual-use technology to Iran.

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He told me very clearly that he would not get involved, but he knew I would be quite disappointed.