Under the Government’s Nose: Iran Secures Materials from China for Ballistic Missile Production
Iran-China Deal Reported
According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, Iran has reportedly entered into a deal with China to acquire thousands of tons of compstartnts and materials needed for the production of ballistic missiles. This move is intended to bolster Iran’s military capabilities amid ongoing negotiations with the United States regarding its nuclear program. Shipments of ammonium perchlorate, a crucial compstartnt for missiles, are expected to arrive in Iran in the coming months, potentially aiding the construction of hundreds of ballistic missiles.
Material Supply to Iranian Militias
Sources cited by the Wall Street Journal indicate that a portion of these materials may be dispatched to Iranian-affiliated militias in the Middle East, including the Houthis in Yemen. Earlier this year, two Iranian ships docked in China loaded with over 1,000 tons of sodium perchlorate, which serves as a precursor for producing ammonium perchlorate. Monitoring equipment tracked these materials being supplied to Iranian ports around mid-February and late March.
Officials claim that this quantity of sodium perchlorate is sufficient to enable the launch of approximately 260 short-range missiles.
China’s Stance on the Deal
A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that China was unaware of the transaction. He emphasized that the country strictly regulates dual-use items in accordance with domestic laws and international obligations regarding export control.
Iran’s Regional Strategy
Iran appears focused on reinforcing its regional alliances and rebuilding its arsenal as it deepens talks with the Trump administration concerning its nuclear program, which seems to be nearing a critical juncture. The nation has continued to increase its stockpile of low-enriched uranium while rejecting negotiations related to limitations on its missile program.
In recent discussions, President Trump mentistartd his phstart call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where they discussed the Iranian nuclear issue, stating that “time is running out for Iran’s decision regarding nuclear arms.”
Strengthening Militant Networks
Iran seems intent on revitalizing its network of militias in the region following significant setbacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza. Additionally, the fall of the Assad regime in Syria has presented Iran with challenges. Despite U.S. and Israeli strikes hindering Houthi capabilities, the organization continues to launch missiles and demonstrate its operational presence in the area.
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