China denies arming Iran:Warns US over Trump’s 50% tariff threat, vows countermeasures

China on Wednesday, April 15, dismissed reports alleging it is providing military assistance to Iran, calling them “fabricated” amid heightened tensions in West Asia. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said: “Media reports accusing China of providing military support to Iran are purely fabricated.” The response followed a report by the Financial Times claiming Iran had acquired a Chinese satellite, identified as TEE-01B, to target US military bases in the Middle East. Beijing, however, did not directly address the specifics of that report. Warning over potential US tariffs Alongside its denial, Beijing cautioned Washington against taking economic action based on the allegations. “If the US proceeds with tariff hikes on China on the basis of these accusations, China will respond with countermeasures,” Lin said. The warning came after the US signalled it could raise tariffs on countries it believes are supporting Iran in the ongoing conflict. Trump threatens 50% tariff US President Donald Trump escalated rhetoric over the weekend, warning of steep tariffs if China is found to be supplying weapons to Iran. “I doubt they would do that… but if we catch them doing that, they get a 50% tariff, which is a staggering amount,” Trump told Fox News. He was responding to media reports citing US intelligence that China could be preparing to supply air defence systems to Iran during a fragile ceasefire. Trump also said he had not directly discussed the matter with Chinese President Xi Jinping, but warned Beijing would face consequences if it extended military support to Tehran. “If China does that, China will have big problems,” he said. China maintains ‘neutral’ stance Despite US sanctions, reports suggest Chinese companies have continued supplying technology to Iran that could aid weapons development. However, direct state-backed military transfers would mark a significant escalation. Beijing is seen as balancing ties with Iran—whose oil it relies on—while maintaining an outwardly neutral stance. Analysts cited in media reports noted that China could argue any transfer of air defence systems would be defensive rather than offensive. Broader geopolitical backdrop The developments come against the backdrop of deepening global alignments. Vladimir Putin’s government has been accused of providing intelligence support to Iran, while Tehran has supplied drones to Russia for use in the Ukraine war. Iran also remains a key oil supplier to China despite sanctions. Trump confirms China visit Amid the tensions, Trump confirmed that his postponed visit to China has been rescheduled for next month. In a post on Truth Social, he said he would visit Beijing on May 14–15, adding that a reciprocal visit by Xi Jinping to Washington, DC, is planned later this year. “My meeting with President Xi Jinping… has been rescheduled,” Trump said, adding that both sides aim to strengthen diplomatic engagement. ​