Leaked Intel Links China to Iranian Attacks on U.S. Forces

A leaked U.S. intelligence assessment reveals that Chinese groups provided Iran with satellite imagery and intelligence support, allowing Tehran to more precisely target ships in the Strait of Hormuz and strike U.S. military bases. This assistance is linked to a July attack in Jordan that killed three U.S. service members and resulted in the destruction of approximately 30 MQ-9 Reaper drones.

Donald Trump hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping for a state visit in the United States as these revelations emerged. While U.S. officials remain uncertain if the Chinese government is directly ordering the support or simply permitting it, the intelligence indicates that China's aid is critical to Iran's combat capabilities. Reports show China sent roughly 1,300 shipments of dual-use components for missiles and drones to Iran during the first half of 2026.

The conflict in the Middle East has placed a significant financial burden on the United States. According to the inspector general of the United States Department of War, the conflict cost the U.S. an estimated $33.4 billion between February and June 2026.