Beijing: China has strongly denied reports that it plans to send 300 to 400 shoulder fired air defence missile launchers to Iran.
The statement came after a Reuters report, citing sources familiar with the matter, claimed that Iran was expected to receive Chinese made portable air defence systems worth around $60-70 million within the next few weeks. The report said the weapons would help Iran strengthen its short range air defences following recent military conflicts.
Responding to the report, China’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the claim as “completely groundless” Beijing said China has consistently supported peace and stability in the Middle East and does not support actions that increase regional tensions.
Iran has not officially confirmed or denied the reported deal. As of now, there is no independent public evidence that any missile systems have been delivered. The Reuters report is based on unnamed sources, while China has officially rejected the allegations.
The conflicting claims come at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, where military developments involving Iran continue to draw global attention. Analysts say if such a deal were to take place, it could strengthen Iran’s ability to defend against low flying aircraft, helicopters and drones.
