Trump Responds to China-Iran Intelligence Allegations

On Sunday, US President Donald Trump addressed reports from The Wall Street Journal regarding Chinese entities allegedly supplying Iran with satellite images of the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan prior to an Iranian missile strike on July 17, which resulted in the deaths of three US Army soldiers. Trump remarked that espionage is a common practice between nations, asserting, “You know, when they say that China spies on us, I say you’re right, and we spy on them too.” He indicated that the incident could exacerbate tensions between the US and China, especially with a state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping scheduled for September 24.

Unnamed American officials did not specify which Chinese entities were involved and did not hold Beijing directly responsible. Chinese officials requested evidence of the alleged intelligence transfer and denied any involvement.

Trump has previously warned China against selling weapons to Iran and sanctioned three China-based satellite companies in May for supporting Iran's military operations.