U.S. Democratic Senator Jean Shaheen has called for President Donald Trump to emphasize China's support for Iran during his upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Shaheen noted reports indicating that Chinese companies are assisting Tehran in economic and military areas.
Iran's Military Organization and China's Role
Shaheen referenced reports showing that Iran used high-resolution satellite images of a base in Jordan, provided by Chinese entities, before carrying out a missile attack that resulted in the deaths of three American soldiers and injuries to four others. She also stated that about 90 percent of Iran's oil exports are sent to China, which provides billions of dollars in revenue for Iran and serves as a "lifeline for its economy."
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She added that Chinese and Hong Kong companies have also supplied components used in Iranian ballistic missiles and drones. Shaheen advised Trump to leverage his influence in negotiations with Xi to prevent the provision of satellite imagery, missile and drone parts, and access to markets for Iran's sanctioned oil.
The Need to Cut Foreign Support for Iran
Shaheen emphasized, "If we want this war to end, we must cut the foreign support that allows Iran to continue fighting, and this starts with China." She also called for the implementation of sanctions against Chinese entities that assist Iran, adding that if China continues this behavior, Congress should impose further consequences.
Senator Shaheen also suggested that Trump should use existing powers in new sanctions laws against Russia to target Chinese buyers of Russian energy, stating that China is "the largest financial backer of the war in Ukraine and one of the largest financial backers of the war in Iran."
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