Web Desk: Pakistan has firmly rejected reports claiming it would facilitate the transfer of Chinese-made air defence missile systems to Iran, with the military describing the allegations as “absolutely concocted and false.”
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) dismissed speculation that Pakistan would serve as a transit route for the reported shipment of Chinese air defence weapons to Iran, stressing that the claims were baseless.
The denial follows reports by international media, citing unnamed sources, which claimed that Iran is expected to receive 300 to 400 Chinese-made man-portable air defence systems (MANPADS), including QW-12 and FN-16 shoulder-fired missiles, under a defence deal reportedly worth $60-70 million. The reports also alleged that the shipment would transit through Pakistan after departing from western China.
Pakistan Dismisses Transit Route Claims
Responding to the reports, the ISPR categorically denied any Pakistani involvement in the alleged transfer, rejecting suggestions that the country would be used as a logistical corridor for the movement of military equipment.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office did not issue a separate statement on the reported defence deal.
China Also Rejects Allegations
China also rejected the reports. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry described the claims as “completely groundless” and reiterated that Beijing remains committed to promoting peace and supporting dialogue to resolve regional conflicts.
Iran had not officially confirmed the reported agreement at the time of publication.
Report Claims Iran Seeking to Strengthen Air Defences
According to the international media reports, the alleged agreement involves the delivery of up to 400 Chinese-made air defence missile systems to help Iran strengthen its short-range air defence capabilities after months of conflict with the United States and Israel.
Military analysts say shoulder-fired air defence systems such as the QW-12 and FN-16 are designed to engage low-flying aircraft, helicopters and drones, making them valuable for protecting military installations and critical infrastructure. The reports also suggested that delivery schedules and other operational details could still change.
The claims regarding the reported missile deal and its proposed transit route have not been independently verified, while both Pakistan and China have publicly rejected key aspects of the reports.
