U.S. intelligence reports suggest that China is preparing to send new air defense systems, specifically Man-Portable Air-Defense Systems (MANPADS), to Iran within the coming weeks.

According to a CNN report, Beijing may use a third-party country to disguise the shipment. This development comes at a sensitive time as U.S. and Iranian delegations are set to meet in Islamabad for peace talks.

While the Chinese embassy has dismissed these claims as "baseless," the report highlights concerns that Iran might be using the current ceasefire to replenish its depleted arsenal with help from strategic partners.

Experts believe China aims to maintain its neutrality while securing its oil interests in Tehran, categorizing the shipment as purely "defensive" to avoid direct confrontation with Washington.