China and Iran’s growing defense cooperation has raised serious global concern. Intelligence sources in Europe confirm that the two countries are now closely working together, especially on surface-to-surface missile production. Analysts warn that this partnership could shift the balance of power in the Middle East and increase tensions with the United States and Israel.
Following the recent war, Iran announced that it has developed a new generation of advanced missiles. Tehran said these weapons could be used directly against Israel if necessary. A recently released video shows a rebuilt underground missile base, where upgraded weapons are displayed.
The United States is becoming increasingly alarmed. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Iran possessing missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads poses an unacceptable risk to Washington. He added that America would not tolerate any actions that threaten regional or global security.
Tehran has dismissed these concerns as interference in its sovereign affairs. Iranian officials argue that their defense policy is a matter of national independence and will not be shaped by foreign pressure. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei declared that the United States has no authority to dictate Iran’s defense capabilities. He said Iran’s military strength is part of its national identity and that no country can stop its progress.
Experts note that with China’s support, Iran is not only rebuilding its damaged missile program but also expanding it beyond prewar levels. Before the conflict, Tehran reportedly produced about 200 missiles per month. Now, with new supplies and technology from China, Iran is working to replace losses and increase its production capacity.
The timing of this renewed cooperation is significant. The 2015 nuclear agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), officially expired in October. Iran has since declared that it will no longer abide by any international restrictions on its nuclear or missile development. As a result, Tehran is now moving ahead with full freedom in its weapons projects.
Analysts fear that this new China-Iran alignment could drastically alter the military and political balance in the Middle East. They warn that Beijing’s growing involvement is not only boosting Iran’s technological capabilities but also challenging Washington’s long-standing influence in the region.
Western intelligence officials believe that China is helping Iran modernize its missile systems through joint research and material support. Such collaboration could allow Iran to develop longer-range missiles capable of carrying heavier payloads, including potentially nuclear warheads.
In the eyes of US defense experts, this poses a strategic threat that extends beyond the Middle East. If Iran continues to expand its missile range, it could eventually reach targets far outside its borders. This development might trigger a new arms race among regional powers such as Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Turkey.
Israel has already expressed concern over Iran’s statements about using its upgraded missiles “if necessary.” Military observers say that any direct confrontation between Tehran and Tel Aviv could draw in larger powers, risking a broader conflict.
For Washington, the partnership between Beijing and Tehran highlights the declining influence of the United States in a region where it once held dominance. China’s growing economic and military ties with Iran give it leverage over one of the most strategically located nations in the world—one that sits at the crossroads of Asia and the Middle East.
International human rights and security groups are also warning about the consequences of unchecked militarization. They stress that renewed arms races and foreign interventions could lead to humanitarian crises and destabilize neighboring countries.
Diplomatic experts suggest that rebuilding dialogue is the only way to avoid escalation. However, with both sides showing little willingness to compromise, tensions are expected to rise further in the coming months.
For now, Iran continues to emphasize that its defense projects are meant for deterrence, not aggression. But with new Chinese technology and the collapse of international oversight, global powers fear that Tehran’s next move could ignite another chapter of conflict in the Middle East.
