US-Iran War: US President Donald Trump on Sunday warned China that it could face 'staggering' 50 per cent tariffs if it provides weapons or military support to Iran amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
'If We Catch Them Doing That, They Get 50% Tariff': Trump
During an interview on Fox News' Sunday Morning Futures, host Maria Bartiromo asked Trump whether his warning of a 50 per cent tariff on countries allegedly supporting Iran was aimed at China.
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"Yes, China and potentially others. But specifically, yes, China is included," Trump said.
"I've heard reports, and I don't always trust news reports, claiming that China is giving shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles. I'm not sure that's accurate. I doubt they would do that because I have a relationship and I think they wouldn't do that, but maybe they did a little bit at the beginning, but I don't think they would anymore," he said.
Reitrating the warning to China, the US President said, "If we catch them doing that, they get a 50 percent tariff, which is a staggering, that's a staggering amount."
Earlier, the US intel reportedly suggested that China is planning to send new air defence systems to Iran in the coming weeks, CNN reported.
This comes amid a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran, raising concerns about the possible escalation of the war. However, there is no official confirmation.
'China Never Provided Weapons To Any Party To The Conflict': Chinese Embassy
The Chinese embassy in Washington, however, denied the claims, saying, "China has never provided weapons to any party to the conflict. We urge the US to refrain from making baseless allegations, maliciously drawing connections, and engaging in sensationalism. We hope that relevant parties will do more to help de-escalate tensions."
Trump To Visit Beijing Next Month
According to a report by news agency AFP, Trump is scheduled to travel to Beijing next month for talks with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, after previously postponing a planned summit due to the conflict with Iran. The visit is expected to focus on trade and security issues.