Trump Warns China with 50% Tariffs Over Alleged Iran Arms Supply

US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Beijing, threatening to impose a 50% tariff on Chinese goods if reports that China is supplying military equipment to Iran are confirmed.

The warning follows the collapse of high-level peace talks between US and Iranian delegations in Islamabad this weekend. In response to the diplomatic stalemate, President Trump has ordered a US naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, effective immediately, significantly escalating regional tensions.

Recent intelligence reports, first cited by CNN, suggest that China is preparing to deliver new air defense systems—specifically shoulder-mounted anti-aircraft missiles (MANPADS)—to Tehran within weeks. The reports allege that Beijing may attempt to route these shipments through third countries to mask their origin.

In an interview with Fox News, Trump was asked if China would face a 50% tariff for supporting Iran militarily.

"If we catch them doing that, they get a 50 percent tariff, which is a staggering amount," Trump stated. While Trump initially expressed skepticism, labeling some reports as "fake news" and noting his personal relationship with President Xi Jinping, he maintained that the consequences for such actions would be severe.

"I don’t think they will do it because I have a relationship with them," Trump said. "But if we catch them... it’s a huge amount."

A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington has dismissed the allegations as "untrue" and "sensationalist," asserting that China has not provided weapons to any side in the conflict. Beijing maintains that it continues to fulfill its international obligations as a "responsible major country."