The US is monitoring signs that China could be weighing financial assistance and supplies of spare parts or missile-related components for Iran amid its conflict with Washington and Israel.
People familiar with US intelligence said that Beijing has so far avoided direct involvement in the conflict but warned the East Asian country may be exploring limited ways to support Tehran, according to CNN.
China remains dependent on Iranian crude and has reportedly urged Iranian authorities to keep shipping lanes open through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route south of Iran for global oil and liquefied natural gas.
One insider said Beijing is likely to proceed carefully due to its energy interests.
“China is more cautious in its support. It wants the war to end because it endangers their energy supply,” the source told CNN.
Targeting Data From Russia
Meanwhile, US intelligence indicates Russia may already be assisting Iran by sharing surveillance information on American forces in the region.
The data includes satellite imagery and details on the positions and movements of US ships, aircraft, and troops.
The exact impact of that intelligence on Iranian operations is not yet confirmed despite several drone strikes hitting sites where US servicemen were present.
The CIA declined to comment on the reports, CNN said.
Roles Downplayed
At a Pentagon briefing, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth dismissed the potential broader role of Moscow and Beijing, who have already called to “end hostilities” in the Middle East.
“I don’t have a message for them and they’re not really a factor here — our issue is not with them; it’s with the nuclear ambitions of Iran,” Hegseth stated.
Iran has launched hundreds of missiles and thousands of drones at US military facilities, diplomatic sites, and civilian targets since the conflict started, while US and Israeli attacks have hit more than 2,000 targets inside Iran.
