A new report from Israeli media has warned of increased military cooperation between Iran and China, particularly in the production of surface-to-surface missiles.
Yedioth Ahronoth cited intelligence findings that Beijing may be helping Tehran rebuild missile capabilities damaged in the recent June war.
The concerns surfaced as Israel’s military chief, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, said the army is ready to launch further strikes on Iran if necessary, following what he described as a successful preemptive campaign.
Newsweek has reached out to the foreign ministries of Israel, China and Iran for comment.
Why It Matters
The reported cooperation between Beijing and Tehran is viewed by Israel as a significant security challenge. Israel fought a 12-day, United States-backed war against Iran in June and is now watching for any moves that could restore Iran’s missile capacity. Israeli authorities have stated that Chinese involvement in missile development or supply could directly undermine Israel’s defense efforts.
Ebrahim Noroozi/AP Photo
What To Know
Officials told Yedioth Ahronoth that China has not confirmed any plans to supply weapons to Iran, but its actions suggest it is “actually rebuilding the Iranian capabilities.” The outlet reported that European intelligence agencies have recently tracked closer cooperation between China and Iran.
Israel’s ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, said in late July that there were “troubling” indications China was aiding Iran in rebuilding its missile arsenal. Speaking to Voice of America, he expressed concern over the possible transfer of materials that could “reconstitute a ballistic missile program.”
Iran-China Ties
Last month, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit, highlighting Tehran’s growing ties with Beijing. Around that time, reports from Middle East Eye and Israel Hayom indicated Iran received Chinese-made surface-to-air missiles paid for in oil.
China has denied arms sales to nations “engaged in warfare.”
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Rising War Rhetoric
The latest Yedioth Ahronoth report comes amid public discussion in Israel about the possibility of renewed conflict with Iran.
On June 27, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said he had instructed the military to prepare an “enforcement plan” targeting Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. Tehran has stated it will continue nuclear enrichment and maintain a peaceful nuclear energy program.
What People Are Saying
Israel’s ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, told Voice of America in July: “There’s no reason why we couldn’t have good relations with the people of China. But we certainly don’t want to see China acting alongside those who threaten our very existence.”
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, at a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi in July: “China will continue to support Iran in safeguarding its national sovereignty and dignity, resisting power politics and bullying, defending its legitimate rights and interests through political negotiation.”
What Happens Next
Israeli officials have said they will act to prevent Iran from restoring its missile capabilities. At the same time, Iran has emphasized its right to pursue nuclear enrichment and strengthen its defenses, signaling readiness to respond to threats.
China’s growing military and economic cooperation with Tehran adds further complexity, as Israel continues monitoring Beijing’s role in supporting Iran’s missile and defense programs.