Iran Turns to China for Military Support Amid Tensions with the US
Iran's Military Strategy and Nuclear Negotiations
Amid escalating fears of a significant military strike from the United States, Iran is increasingly depending on China for advanced anti-ship cruise missiles capable of targeting large US naval vessels. Reports indicate that discussions between Iran and China regarding the acquisition of new missile technology have intensified as the US continues to deploy its most formidable military assets, including aircraft, naval ships, and troops. Following the nearly two-week conflict between Israel and Iran last June, negotiations for the CM-302 missile purchase are reportedly close to finalization, although the delivery timeline remains undisclosed. In addition to the CM-302, Iran is also pursuing Chinese surface-to-air missile systems, known as MANPADS, along with anti-ballistic and anti-satellite weaponry, according to sources.
Recent discussions between Iran and the United States in Geneva concluded without any significant progress, as Tehran refused to agree to dismantle its nuclear enrichment program, which is a primary concern for the US. President Donald Trump has consistently stated that Iran must not be permitted to develop nuclear weapons, while Iran maintains that its nuclear initiatives are solely for peaceful energy purposes.
Concerns Raised by the UN Nuclear Watchdog
In a recent confidential report, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) identified Iran's Isfahan nuclear facility as a 'place of interest', suggesting that the site may be involved in bomb-grade uranium enrichment. The IAEA noted that Iran has not permitted access to its nuclear facilities, which were targeted during a conflict with the US in June. The report emphasized that the agency cannot confirm whether Iran has halted all enrichment activities or assess the current size of its uranium stockpile due to restricted access. Iran operates four declared enrichment sites, but the IAEA warned that the lack of oversight hampers its ability to provide accurate information regarding Iran's enriched uranium reserves. While Iran insists its nuclear program is peaceful, the IAEA and Western nations assert that Tehran had a structured nuclear weapons program until 2003. The US continues to seek an agreement to restrict Iran's nuclear capabilities and prevent the development of nuclear arms.
With inputs from AP