Overview
- China's defense ministry, through spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang on Thursday, denied reports that SMIC sent chip-making gear to Iran and that a Chinese satellite firm posted images of US bases.
- Zhang called the accounts speculative disinformation and rejected US officials' suggestions that China and Russia helped Iran.
- Foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing made its own efforts to push a ceasefire but did not confirm claims it persuaded Tehran.
- A two-week pause between Iran and the United States is now in effect, with talks expected to look at a longer peace deal.
- China and Pakistan last week floated a five-point plan that urges an immediate ceasefire and protection of ships in the Strait of Hormuz, a key energy corridor.