Emerging reports indicate that a proxy conflict has erupted between the United States and Israel on one side, and Iran with support from China and Russia on the other.
Chinese technology firms linked to the People’s Liberation Army have been selling detailed intelligence online, including data on U.S. military assets, aircraft movements, and carrier strike group operations. This intelligence is said to provide Iran with critical battlefield awareness.
Analysis of shipping records reveals that China has transported significant quantities of sodium perchlorate—a key component in missile propellant—to Iranian ports since the conflict began. Experts estimate this could produce hundreds of ballistic missiles.
The U.S. Defense Department is investigating whether recent Iranian missiles launched at Israel contain Chinese technology and components.
In early March, reports emerged that Russia provided Iran with intelligence targeting U.S. military assets in the Middle East. The same week, it was reported that Russia shared intelligence for attacking Israeli energy infrastructure.
This cooperation between China, Russia, and Iran is part of a long-standing alliance. The three nations have signed multiple defense agreements, including the 2021 Iran-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the 2025 Iran-Russia Defense Treaty.
A report by the Council on Foreign Relations detailed how Iran, China, and North Korea supported Russian military operations in Ukraine. The Institute for the Study of War has endorsed findings that Chinese technology is being used by Iran to build missiles.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s intelligence apparatus has reported that Russia provided Iran with a list of 55 critical energy infrastructure targets within Israel.
Columbia University professor Jeffrey Sachs stated that China and Russia should be the primary actors in resolving the conflict, calling on Prime Minister Modi, President Xi Jinping, and President Vladimir Putin to act as “grown-ups” to stop the war. Sachs criticized former President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for initiating a “war of whim.”