Washington: Two senior US officials have alleged that China’s leading semiconductor company, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation, has supplied chipmaking equipment to Iran’s military-linked industrial sector over the past year.
According to the officials, the equipment transfers began around a year ago and may still be ongoing. They also claimed the collaboration could include technical training related to semiconductor technology. The officials did not provide details on whether the equipment originated from the United States, which could raise sanctions concerns.
The company has previously been sanctioned by Washington and accused of links to China’s military-industrial network, allegations it has denied. Chinese authorities have also rejected claims of military cooperation with Iran, stating that normal trade relations are being maintained.
Iran has not commented on the latest allegations, and the Chinese embassy in Washington also did not respond to requests for clarification.
The reports come amid heightened tensions between the United States and China, as well as ongoing conflict in the Middle East, where diplomatic efforts for de-escalation continue alongside military developments.
