A few days after the outbreak of the conflict with Iran, U.S. intelligence agencies identified signs that the war could expand geopolitically, as Russia and China were reportedly seeking to support Tehran in order to limit U.S. and Israeli military operations.

Analysts from the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), the Pentagon’s military intelligence arm, assessed—according to CBS—that Beijing was considering supplying Iran with advanced radar systems. These discussions reportedly took place alongside intelligence indicating that Russia had provided Iran with data on the locations of U.S. military forces in the Middle East.

While the transfer of information from Moscow to Tehran had already been reported by CBS, China’s alleged intention to assist Iran—from the early stages of the conflict and possibly over the longer term—suggests a broader, albeit informal, alignment among powers seeking to curb U.S. influence in the region.

U.S. officials said China was considering sending X-band radar systems, which could significantly enhance Iran’s ability to detect and track threats such as low-flying drones and cruise missiles, as well as protect its air defense systems from advanced attacks.

It remains unclear whether this equipment was ultimately delivered. However, the assessment highlights Washington’s concern that the conflict with Iran could draw in not only regional adversaries but also major global powers willing to provide critical support without direct military involvement.

The DIA declined to comment on the reports, while the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the White House also refrained from making statements.

FT: Revolutionary Guards used Chinese satellite for base attacks

Last week, the Financial Times reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps used a reconnaissance satellite acquired from the Chinese company Earth Eye Co. to target U.S. bases in the Middle East, citing leaked Iranian military documents.

According to U.S. officials, Tehran has previously used satellite imagery provided by China, including during the current conflict with Israel and the United States. It has not been confirmed whether those images came specifically from Earth Eye Co.

A Pentagon report on the Chinese military published in December noted that, by 2024, China-based commercial satellite companies had engaged in business transactions with the Revolutionary Guards.

According to the 2026 Annual Threat Assessment, China has surpassed Russia as the primary competitor to the U.S. in space. Its rapid development of space capabilities allows Beijing to leverage space for foreign policy goals, challenge U.S. military and technological superiority, and expand its global influence.

U.S. intelligence agencies also estimate that Beijing considered sending air defense systems to Iran, possibly via third countries to avoid direct involvement. CNN reported that China was preparing to deliver portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) to Iran.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated, however, that President Donald Trump maintains direct communication with Xi Jinping, and that Beijing has assured Washington it will not proceed with such actions.

Donald Trump is expected to visit China next month for a high-level summit amid multiple geopolitical crises. He said he had sent a letter to Xi Jinping asking him not to supply weapons to Iran, without specifying when the exchange took place.

A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington stated that China’s stance toward Iran is “transparent,” emphasizing that Beijing seeks to promote peace talks and does not engage in actions that could escalate conflicts.