Iran Set to Receive Hundreds of Chinese Shoulder-Fired Air Defense Missiles Amid Arms Deal

Iran is expected to receive its first shipment of several hundred shoulder-fired air defense missiles from China in the coming weeks, according to a Reuters report on Wednesday. The initial delivery will include between 300 and 400 missiles produced by China. Tehran and Beijing are reportedly exploring various overland routes to discreetly transport the military equipment and reduce the risk of interception. The total deal is valued at approximately 60 to 70 million US dollars and is part of Iran's efforts to bolster its short-range air defenses amid concerns about a potential resumption of conflict.

However, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has denied the reports, calling them "completely unfounded." This development comes amid previous claims by former US President Donald Trump, who stated that Chinese President Xi Jinping had promised not to supply weapons or military equipment to Iran. Last Friday, Trump also expressed his belief that Russia and China are not involved in any war against Iran, suggesting that such involvement would be detrimental to their interests.