Washington — As President Donald Trump prepares to host Chinese President Xi Jinping at the White House on Thursday, national‑security experts warn that the meeting will address what they call a “dangerous alliance” between China and Iran.
Expert concerns over Chinese support for Tehran
Jonathan Schanzer, executive director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, told Fox News Digital that China has been providing Iran with a range of assistance that could destabilize the region. He cited the supply of drone components and motors that have been used by the Islamic Republic to strike neighboring countries.
“They are also providing dual‑use chemicals that aid Iran’s missile program,” Schanzer said. “We have observed targeting that appears unusually precise, suggesting Chinese technical help.”
In addition to military support, Schanzer highlighted an economic relationship that helps keep Iran afloat while it continues to disrupt global oil markets. He warned that Iran has been inflating oil prices, clogging the Strait of Hormuz and threatening the Bab al‑Mandab, actions that could further harm the U.S. economy.
Trump’s expected response
A senior administration official confirmed that during President Trump’s May visit to China, he and President Xi agreed that Iran must not acquire a nuclear weapon and that the Strait of Hormuz should be reopened without tolls.
“President Trump will make it clear to President Xi that the United States will not tolerate Chinese support for Iran,” the official said. “He will demand an end to the provision of drone parts, missile chemicals and any economic assistance that fuels Tehran’s aggression.”
Broader strategic context
Both experts and officials stressed that the China‑Iran relationship is part of a larger great‑power competition. Schanzer noted that while China focuses on Taiwan, its partnership with Iran represents another front where U.S. interests are at stake.
“Taiwan remains the primary target for the Chinese Communist Party,” Schanzer added. “The United States must stand firm on Taiwan, protect our semiconductor supply chain, and ensure that China does not gain leverage through its ties with Iran.”
The upcoming White House meeting is expected to reinforce the Trump administration’s commitment to confronting threats to American security, while also signaling to allies that the United States remains vigilant against coordinated actions by adversarial regimes.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
