Trump’s four-word response after China defied him with secret smuggling of weapons to Iran

China has reportedly agreed to supply Iran with up to 400 shoulder-fired air-defence systems, according to three sources cited by Reuters. The alleged deal could strengthen Iran’s ability to counter US helicopters, drones and other low-flying aircraft, while challenging President Donald Trump’s claim that Chinese President Xi Jinping had promised not to arm Tehran.

Trump said the report would be surprising and that Xi would know he was disappointed, but he did not announce any consequences. China denied the report as “completely groundless”, while Pakistan rejected claims that it would help transport the weapons; sources cautioned that quantities and delivery arrangements could still change.