Trump downplays alleged Chinese Intelligence supply to Iran

US President Donald Trump has downplayed reports that Chinese entities allegedly provided Tehran with satellite images of a US military base in Jordan before and after an Iranian missile strike that killed three American soldiers.According to media reports, Trump stated intelligence gathering between major powers was a common practice. “When people say China is spying on us, I say you’re right, and we spy on them too,” he said, adding that China was essentially doing what the US does.
Iran launched missiles at the Muwaffaq Salti airbase in Jordan on July 17, where US forces are stationed. The attack killed three American soldiers.
US officials cited in media reports did not identify the Chinese entities allegedly involved and did not indicate that the Chinese government was directly responsible for the transfer.The officials reportedly raised the matter with Chinese counterparts, who asked for evidence of the alleged transfer and denied involvement by Chinese companies. In May, Washington sanctioned three China-based satellite companies over alleged assistance to Iranian military operations.China remains a key economic partner of Iran, buying a significant share of its oil and providing diplomatic support to Tehran. Chinese President Xi Jinping is also scheduled to visit the United States in late September.