China denies giving Iran intel before strike that killed US troops

On Monday, China's foreign ministry spokesman, Guo Jiakun, firmly rejected reports that Chinese entities provided Iran with satellite imagery of a US military base in Jordan, prior to and after an Iranian missile strike that killed three American soldiers. The Wall Street Journal reported on the July 17 missile strikes targeting the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base.

Unnamed American officials mentioned in the Journal's account did not name any specific Chinese entities, nor did they claim direct blame on China. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson stated, "We firmly oppose groundless suspicion and accusations without evidence." In response to the reports, US President Donald Trump attempted to downplay the allegations, suggesting that both countries engage in similar espionage activities.

Trump stated, "You know, when they say that China spies on us, I say you're right, and we spy on them too. That's what we do." China's officials demanded proof of the alleged satellite imagery transfer, which US officials refused to provide and denied the involvement of Chinese companies. Trump has previously warned China against selling weapons to Iran, and in May, the US imposed sanctions on three Chinese satellite companies for allegedly aiding Iran's military operations.

Despite their significant economic ties, with China being Iran's largest oil buyer, Trump acknowledged Xi Jinping's "reasonable behavior" during a press conference. He added, "I haven't allowed Chinese cars to be sold in the US. I'm the one that kept them out."