CNN: US Intelligence Says China Preparing Arms Shipment to Iran

US intelligence suggests China is preparing to deliver new air defence systems to Iran in the coming weeks. CNN reported, citing three people familiar with recent intelligence assessments.

The report said there are indications that Beijing is working to route the shipments through third countries to conceal their origin.

The US State Department, the White House and the Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment.

Beijing is preparing to move hand-launched anti-aircraft missile systems known as MANPADS, the broadcaster added, citing unnamed sources.

The US and Iran are due to hold high-level talks in the Pakistani capital Islamabad on Saturday on options for ending the six-week-old war.

(reuters, luc)