Trump Minimizes Reports of Chinese Intelligence Sharing with Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday dismissed allegations that Chinese entities provided Iran with satellite imagery prior to a strike on a military base in Jordan, an attack that resulted in the deaths of three American soldiers.

The incident involved Iranian missiles hitting the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in July, where U.S. forces are stationed. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, unnamed American officials declined to identify the specific Chinese companies involved or suggest direct involvement from Beijing, though the imagery was alleged to have been supplied to Iran.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One as he returned from a visit to Ireland, Trump characterized the issue as standard espionage activity between major powers. “You know, when they say that China spies on us, I say you’re right, and we spy on them too,” Trump said. “That’s what we do. They basically do what we do.”

The President’s response aligns with his administration’s broader strategy to de-escalate tensions with China during his second term, despite ongoing frustration in Washington regarding Beijing’s support for Tehran. Trump previously warned China against supplying weapons to Iran and sanctioned three Chinese satellite firms in May for their cooperation with Iranian military entities. China remains one of Iran’s primary economic and diplomatic partners and a key purchaser of its oil.

When asked whether he would address the intelligence sharing with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump declined to answer directly. Xi is expected to visit the White House on September 24, although China has not officially confirmed the trip. Trump reiterated his belief in his personal rapport with Xi, stating, “I think he’s behaved reasonably well, and we behave reasonably well.”