U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday, September 13, 2026, brushed aside a report that Chinese entities provided Iran with satellite imagery of a military base in Jordan before an attack that killed three U.S. service members. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One while returning from a visit to Ireland, Trump equated the reported surveillance to standard international intelligence activities, saying that both China and the United States engage in mutual spying.
The Wall Street Journal reported that unnamed U.S. officials claimed Iran obtained satellite images of the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan from Chinese firms. The base was struck by Iranian missiles in July, resulting in the deaths of three U.S. troops. The report noted that officials did not allege direct involvement by the Chinese government and declined to name the specific entities involved.
China responded on Monday, September 14, 2026, stating it has strictly followed international obligations. Foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the country opposes accusations made without evidence. Trump, who has previously warned China against providing weapons to Iran, reiterated on Sunday that he maintains a good relationship with President Xi Jinping, saying he believes both leaders have "behaved reasonably well."
The report links Chinese entities to an Iranian attack on U.S. forces amid a regional conflict where at least 18 U.S. service personnel have been killed since the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran began in late February 2026. In May 2026, the U.S. sanctioned three Chinese satellite companies for their work with Iranian military entities. China remains a primary buyer of Iranian oil.
The administration’s choice to play down the report comes ahead of an expected meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping in the United States on September 24, 2026. While the U.S. expects the visit, China has not yet officially confirmed the meeting.