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WSJ: Chinese Shipments Help Sustain Iran’s Weapons Programs

2026.09.24, 15:16
WSJ: Chinese Shipments Help Sustain Iran’s Weapons Programs

Chinese suppliers sent around 1,300 shipments of dual-use components to Iran’s Defense Ministry during the first half of 2026, helping sustain the country’s drone and missile programs, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Gunaz.tv

Iranian customs records cited by the Journal show that the shipments included GPS devices, electric motors, aircraft-engine parts and other components potentially usable in weapons production.

One shipment reportedly arrived on June 17, the day Washington and Tehran agreed to a 60-day truce. More than a dozen additional shipments followed two days later, carrying over $6 million worth of drone-related components.

Iran also expanded air connections with China after the war disrupted maritime trade. US-sanctioned Mahan Air increased flights from Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou to Tehran from four per week in early March to about 27 by late April. The airline operated 39 China-Iran flights during the first week of September, according to FlightRadar24 data.

The Journal reported that Chinese companies have also marketed electronics used in Shahed drones to Iranian buyers, while Chinese chemical supplies have helped replenish materials used in Iran’s missile production.

China has become Iran’s dominant oil buyer, with US lawmakers estimating that it accounts for more than 80% of Iranian crude exports.

Despite Washington’s sanctions and pressure, Chinese-Iranian trade has continued. Beijing has rejected accusations of providing improper support to Iran, citing its export controls and opposition to unilateral US sanctions.

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