INTERNATIONAL
TRUMP CLAIMS CHINA WON’T ARM IRAN AHEAD OF SUMMIT
U.S. President Donald Trump has said that China has agreed not to supply weapons to Iran, citing personal assurances from Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
Trump made the claim in a post on Truth Social and in an interview, stating that Xi had “essentially” promised not to deliver arms to Iran following a direct exchange of letters between both leaders.
The development comes ahead of a planned summit between Trump and Xi in Beijing scheduled for mid-May, where both leaders are expected to discuss global tensions and bilateral relations.
Trump noted that he had written to Xi over concerns that China might be supplying weapons to Iran, adding that the Chinese leader responded with assurances denying such actions.
The statement comes amid rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly following U.S. actions involving Iranian ports and maritime routes.
Despite the claim, China had earlier criticised U.S. moves in the region, describing them as “dangerous and irresponsible,” while maintaining that it seeks a constructive role in promoting peace.
China remains a key economic partner to Iran, especially in oil trade, making the issue significant in global geopolitical dynamics.
Trump also used the opportunity to comment on broader U.S.-China relations, describing them as complex but ongoing, while reiterating his tough stance on Beijing.
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board