President Donald Trump stated that China and Russia are not participating in the ongoing Iran conflict, though he warned that any intervention would carry severe consequences for Moscow and Beijing, according to interviews with Axios and statements on Truth Social reported by Al Arabiya and the Middle East Monitor.
Trump Cites Direct Assurances from Xi and Putin on Arms Supplies
According to statements published on Truth Social, President Donald Trump stated that Chinese President Xi Jinping assured him during a recent meeting in Beijing that China would not provide or sell weapons to the Islamic Republic of Iran, a commitment that Trump noted includes Chinese companies. Trump added that Russian President Vladimir Putin also told him Moscow would not sell weapons to Tehran.
Did you know?
The United States has previously imposed sanctions on specific individuals and corporate entities located in Russia and China for assisting Iran with weapons procurement, according to intelligence reports.
Despite these diplomatic assurances, Trump warned during his interview with Axios that if either nation were to participate in the conflict, it “would be very bad for them” and contrary to their national interests. U.S. and Israeli military forces have been engaged in hostilities with Iran since a wave of strikes began in February, which resulted in the deaths of several senior Iranian officials, including the country’s supreme leader.
U.S. Intelligence Probes Potential Russian Tech Support for Iran
Four sources familiar with U.S. intelligence operations reported that an initial Iranian strike against a CIA target in the Gulf prompted intelligence officials to investigate whether Russia provided Iran with targeting data or drone technology. This inquiry runs parallel to the broader military campaign in the Middle East, which has seen renewed escalations.
The United States has previously imposed sanctions on specific individuals and corporate entities located in Russia and China for assisting Iran with weapons procurement, according to intelligence reports.
White House Weighs Expanded Military Operations
During his interview with Axios, President Trump indicated he was nearing a final decision regarding the potential large-scale military operation against Iran. However, he emphasized to reporters that no final determination had yet been reached as the administration evaluates its next steps in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have China and Russia agreed to halt weapons sales to Iran?
According to statements by President Donald Trump, both Chinese President Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin assured him that their countries would not sell weapons to Iran.
What triggered U.S. intelligence investigations into Russian involvement?
Four sources familiar with U.S. intelligence stated that an Iranian strike against a CIA target in the Gulf early in the conflict prompted investigators to examine whether Russia supplied targeting information or drone technology.
What is the scale of the potential new U.S. military action against Iran?
Reporting indicates that President Trump is reviewing a potential large-scale offensive that could surpass the military scope of Operation Epic Fury, which took place earlier in the year.
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