US intelligence agencies have information that China is preparing to deliver new air defense systems to Iran in the coming weeks, according to three sources familiar with the latest assessments.

This move would be particularly provocative given that Beijing claimed to have helped mediate the fragile ceasefire that earlier this week halted the fighting between Iran and the US. Additionally, President Trump is scheduled to visit China at the beginning of next month for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Intelligence data also suggests that Iran may be using the ceasefire as an opportunity to replenish stockpiles of certain weapons systems with the help of key foreign partners. According to sources, there are indications that Beijing is working on rerouting shipments through third countries to conceal their true origin.

The systems Beijing is preparing to send are portable anti-aircraft missile systems known as MANPADS, which represent an asymmetric military threat. The Chinese embassy spokesperson denied this: "China has never delivered weapons to any party in the conflict."

The delivery of MANPADS systems would mark increased Chinese support for Iran since the US and Israel launched their military campaign. Although Chinese companies continue to sell sanctioned technology, a direct transfer of weapons systems would represent a new level of support.

According to the sources, Beijing sees an advantage in positioning itself as a lasting Iranian ally while remaining externally neutral, retaining the ability to deny involvement after the conflict ends.