US President Donald Trump has cautioned China against transferring military equipment to Iran, saying Beijing would face “serious consequences” if such assistance materialises. His remarks come at a time when a temporary two-week ceasefire between Washington and Tehran remains uncertain.

Speaking to journalists before leaving the White House for a trip to Miami, Trump said China would encounter major trouble if it moves forward with any weapons shipments to Iran, though he did not elaborate on what action the United States might take.

The warning followed a CNN report citing American intelligence inputs suggesting Tehran could soon receive new Chinese air defence systems. The report indicated that the alleged transfers might be routed through intermediary nations to obscure their origin.

The developments surface even as both the US and Iran continue to maintain a significant military footprint in the region despite the ceasefire. American naval assets and troops remain stationed near Iranian waters, while Tehran is believed to be attempting to restore air defence infrastructure damaged during recent US and Israeli operations.

China has firmly denied the claims. In a statement issued by its embassy in Washington, Beijing said it has not supplied arms to any side involved in the conflict and urged the US to refrain from what it described as unfounded accusations.

Any confirmed military cooperation between China and Iran would likely be interpreted by Washington as a sharp escalation. It could also complicate Trump’s planned visit to China next month, where he is expected to meet President Xi Jinping for high-level discussions.

For Tehran, heavily constrained by Western sanctions, China — along with Russia — remains a crucial strategic partner, offering economic engagement and diplomatic backing.

According to the CNN report, the suspected package may include portable surface-to-air missile systems, commonly known as MANPADS, which could be used against low-flying aircraft. US officials reportedly believe similar weapons might have featured in recent incidents involving American fighter jets and helicopters.

Iran has not publicly detailed its capabilities but has claimed through the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps that a newly deployed advanced defence system contributed to recent operations targeting US aircraft.

Trump also said Washington is engaged in “very deep negotiations” with Iran but appeared unfazed about the outcome. He stated that whether or not a final agreement is reached, the United States would emerge in a strong position. Additionally, he mentioned concerns about possible sea mines in regional waters and confirmed that US minesweeping operations are underway to keep the Strait open for navigation.