Western analysts have raised concerns that China could be materially supporting Iran.
By Hezy Laing
Multiple reports indicate that Chinese aircraft—specifically large cargo and military transport planes—have landed in Iran amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war.
These reports, which include coverage from France24, The Telegraph (UK), Fox News, and others, highlight a series of flights beginning on June 14, 2025.
At least five large cargo planes, including Boeing 747s and Airbus A330 freighters, have been tracked departing China for Iran.
These aircraft typically follow a route west over Kazakhstan, then south through Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, before disappearing from commercial radar systems as they approach Iranian airspace—often after switching off their transponders.
This loss of visibility near Iran suggests an attempt to obscure their final destination or activity.
The exact contents of these flights remain unconfirmed. However, the use of military-grade cargo aircraft and the secretive nature of the missions have fueled widespread speculation that the planes may be carrying military hardware, weapons systems, air defense components, or other forms of strategic support.
Intelligence sources and aviation analysts note that such aircraft are commonly used for sensitive government or military contracts, further suggesting that the cargo is classified.
While Chinese and Iranian officials have not confirmed the contents of the flights, Western analysts have raised concerns that China could be materially supporting Iran.
Some reports even speculate that sensitive materials or personnel may have been retrieved, though this remains unverified.
Certain experts have also suggested that Iran might have transferred part of its enriched uranium stockpile to China for safekeeping and potential future use.
