Trump threatens 50% tariff on China over alleged Iran weapons shipment, warns of “staggering” penalty

US President Donald Trump on Sunday escalated his rhetoric against China, threatening to impose a 50% tariff if Beijing is found supplying weapons to Iran amid a fragile ceasefire in the ongoing Iran–US conflict. His remarks come after peace negotiations hosted in Islamabad collapsed earlier this week, further intensifying global tensions.

Speaking to Fox News, Trump said he did not believe China would proceed with such a move but warned of severe economic consequences if it did. “I doubt they would do that… but if we catch them doing that, they get a 50% tariff, which is a staggering amount,” he stated. The comments were made in response to reports citing US intelligence assessments suggesting possible Chinese preparations to send military equipment to Iran.

The allegations, originally reported by CNN, claimed that Beijing may be preparing to transfer air defence systems, including shoulder-fired missile units, to Iran. The systems, known as MANPADS, are considered a significant threat to low-flying military aircraft and could potentially alter battlefield dynamics in the region.

Trump also broadened his remarks to global energy markets, suggesting that China could purchase oil from the United States or even from Venezuela, claiming there is “overcapacity” that could be sold at lower prices. His comments included references to expanded crude supply options from both domestic production and international sources.

Tensions between Washington and Beijing have already been strained by multiple rounds of tariffs and trade disputes. Prior to recent legal challenges in the US Supreme Court, Trump-era tariffs on Chinese goods had reportedly peaked at 125%, later stabilising at lower levels following partial trade negotiations. The administration has since sought alternative legal pathways to maintain economic pressure on Beijing.

Meanwhile, Beijing has denied the allegations, with its embassy in Washington insisting that China has never supplied weapons to any party in the conflict. Chinese officials described the claims as “baseless” and urged restraint, emphasising China’s commitment to international obligations and de-escalation.

According to intelligence sources cited in the report, Iran may be attempting to rebuild certain military capabilities during the ceasefire period, potentially with indirect assistance from foreign partners. Analysts also note that China continues to maintain strong energy ties with Iran, which remains a key supplier of sanctioned crude oil.

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The developments come ahead of a planned visit by Trump to China next month, where he is expected to meet President Xi Jinping for high-level talks that could shape the next phase of US–China relations amid escalating geopolitical friction.