China rejects Netanyahu’s claim that Beijing aided Iranian missile production

Netanyahu said in an interview with CBS’s “60 Minutes” that China had provided “a certain amount of support” for Iranian missile manufacturing.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

China on Tuesday rejected accusations by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Beijing provided support and components for Iran’s missile production program, calling the claims “baseless” and defending China’s role in the region.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing fulfills its international obligations and supports efforts aimed at reducing tensions and promoting stability.

The comments came after Netanyahu said in an interview with CBS’s “60 Minutes” that China had provided “a certain amount of support” for Iranian missile manufacturing.

While criticizing the alleged assistance, Netanyahu said he wanted to maintain diplomatic communication with Beijing.

Guo rejected the allegations and said China does not support actions that escalate conflict.

China’s response formed part of a broader diplomatic effort to address accusations regarding Beijing’s role in the Iran-Israel conflict.

The dispute follows previous reports earlier in 2026 alleging Chinese military and technological support for Iran, claims Beijing also denied.

Separately, CNN reported in early April that US intelligence assessments indicated China was preparing to deliver additional air defense systems to Iran.

According to CNN, the systems included shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missile systems known as MANPADS.

The report cited three people familiar with recent intelligence assessments who said there were indications Beijing was attempting to route the shipments through third countries in order to conceal their origin.

The White House, the US State Department, China’s Foreign Ministry and the Chinese Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment regarding the reported intelligence findings.

The exchange between Beijing and Jerusalem comes amid continuing tensions involving Iran and its regional military activities, including concerns surrounding missile development and air defense capabilities.

China has repeatedly denied involvement in supplying military assistance connected to the conflict and has publicly presented itself as supporting de-escalation efforts in the region.