China’s President Xi Jinping has assured US President Donald Trump that Beijing is not supplying weapons to Iran, as Washington increases pressure over China’s economic ties with Tehran.
MEDIABITES – Webdesk – AA
Chinese President Xi Jinping has told US President Donald Trump that China is not providing weapons to Iran during the ongoing regional tensions, according to a statement from the White House.
The assurance comes at a time when Washington is closely monitoring Beijing’s economic engagement with Tehran, particularly its continued purchase of Iranian oil amid heightened geopolitical tensions.
White House confirms Xi’s assurance
Speaking in Washington, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Xi conveyed China’s position directly to Trump.
“President Xi assured the president that they are not supplying Iran with weapons throughout this conflict,” she stated, underscoring the clarity of Beijing’s message.
US raises concerns over energy ties
Despite the assurance, US officials remain concerned about China’s deep economic relationship with Iran.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent highlighted that China accounts for the majority of Iran’s oil exports, making Beijing a key financial lifeline for Tehran. These transactions have increasingly come under scrutiny as part of Washington’s broader strategy to pressure Iran.
Sanctions warning to Chinese banks
In a further escalation, US authorities have warned Chinese financial institutions about potential consequences.
Bessent revealed that two Chinese banks have been formally cautioned that they could face secondary sanctions if Iranian funds are found flowing through their systems, signaling growing financial pressure from Washington.
Strategic implications
The development comes amid ongoing tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a critical global energy chokepoint.
Any disruption in the region could have far-reaching consequences for global oil markets, trade routes, and energy-dependent countries, including Türkiye.
Outlook
While China’s assurance may ease immediate concerns over military involvement, its economic ties with Iran continue to pose a challenge for US policy, keeping the situation complex and highly sensitive on the global stage.
