China deepens arms ties with Iran, eyeing drones and missiles amid US tensions

China is reportedly supplying offensive weapons and air-defense systems to Iran, including loitering munitions (kamikaze drones) and discussions over CM‑302 missiles and possibly the DF‑17 hypersonic glide missile. Iran has paid in oil shipments for some systems, and the move unfolds as the US contemplates action against Tehran and regional tensions rise, with Beijing seeking to balance support for Tehran and broader U.S.–China tensions.