Experts urge Trump to confront China over expanding Iran partnership during Xi's visit
U.S. officials and analysts warned President Trump to address what they describe as a growing China-Iran alliance ahead of his meeting with President Xi, while Iran's leader dismissed the criticism as bullying.
Ahead of President Donald Trump's scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, security analysts said the United States must confront what they view as a dangerous partnership between China and Iran. Jonathan Schanzer, executive director of the Foundation for Defence of Democracies, told Fox News that Beijing has increased assistance to Tehran, including drone components, dual-use chemicals, alleged targeting support and expanded economic ties. He added that China is "keeping the Islamic Republic afloat while it continues to hammer away at the economy worldwide."
In response, Iranian President Masouz Pezeskhian addressed the United Nations, condemning what he called Trump's "bullying mentality" and stating that Iran remains open to diplomatic solutions but will not accept language that implies force.
The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the region, with the United States maintaining naval operations in the Persian Gulf and ongoing diplomatic activity at the UN General Assembly.