Iran’s “Secret Weapon” in Its Conflict With America: China’s Support

Iran’s ability to withstand U.S. pressure is increasingly connected to its relationship with China. A Wall Street Journal investigation based partly on Iranian customs records reported that Chinese entities have continued sending Iran large quantities of dual-use components, including electronics, electric motors and aircraft-related parts that can potentially be used in drones and missile systems.

The investigation identified roughly 1,300 shipments of dual-use components from China to Iran’s Ministry of Defense during the first half of 2026. Some shipments reportedly included GPS-related equipment, electric motors and other materials that could support Iran’s domestic military production. China has also remained a major destination for Iranian oil exports, providing Tehran with an important source of revenue despite U.S. sanctions.

The relationship goes beyond military-related goods. Iran supplies China with energy, while Chinese companies provide access to markets, equipment and materials that can be difficult for Tehran to obtain elsewhere. Beijing, however, rejects claims that it is deliberately enabling the conflict and says it regulates exports of dual-use goods while opposing unilateral U.S. sanctions.

The China-Iran relationship therefore adds another layer to the conflict. Iran is not simply relying on finished weapons from China; access to Chinese trade, technology, manufacturing and oil markets can help it maintain its economy and industrial capabilities. For Washington, this means pressure on Iran also involves dealing with China’s broader economic relationship with Tehran.