China set to supply Iran arms: CNNBloombergUS intelligence indicated that China is preparing to provide Iran with air defense systems in a matter of weeks, CNN reported, citing people familiar with the matter. Beijing is expected to ship shoulder-fired, surface-to-air missiles known as Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS) to Iran, the report said. MANPADS could be operated by one person and are easy to transport, conceal and use, and the US has for decades prioritized the need to prevent their proliferation. Flags flutter in front of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on March 12. China’s reported role — which it has neither confirmed nor denied — highlighted the country’s ability to diplomatically leverage its relationship with all nations involved, marking a departure from its long-held preference of staying on the sidelines in other countries’ disputes.

Source: Taipei Times April 11, 2026 16:06 UTC