Trump Suggests Beijing’s Help for Iran Is Limited

The standoff over the Strait of Hormuz tests Beijing’s balancing act, analysts say.

U.S. forces patrol the Arabian Sea near the container ship Touska, after firing on the Iranian-flagged vessel, which the United States said tried to violate the naval blockade of Iranian ports near the Strait of Hormuz, on April 20, 2026. U.S. Navy via Getty Images

U.S. President Donald Trump has downplayed concerns about Beijing’s support for Iran, suggesting the communist regime’s backing might be limited.

“I think maybe helping, but I don’t think much,” Trump told Fox News on April 26 when asked about China’s aid to Iran. “I think China could have been much worse than they’ve been, so I don’t consider them having been very bad.”