U.S. Intelligence: China Sends Missiles to Iran

American intelligence agencies believe China is taking a more direct role in supporting Iran's military, according to a New York Times report. The intelligence suggests China may have provided Iran with shoulder-fired missiles. These are portable weapons that can attack aircraft. U.S. officials also believe Chinese companies are supplying Iran with "dual-use" materials. These are items with both civilian and military purposes. In this case, they are reportedly used for military production. This intelligence indicates a shift. China appears to be moving beyond buying Iranian oil to actively supplying military aid. The report does not specify if this is action by the Chinese state or by companies acting independently. The developments come as Iran provides military drones to Russia for the war in Ukraine. This raises concerns about a growing network of military cooperation challenging Western interests.