Reports indicate that China improved Iran's "aim" against the U.S. in the Middle East

 Satellite imagery and intelligence support from Chinese groups* have reportedly bolstered Iran's ability to control traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and strike U.S. bases in the Middle East with greater precision, CNN reported on Friday, citing anonymous sources familiar with U.S. intelligence assessments on the matter.

 "Without the Chinese parts, it wouldn't be as likely that they would keep fighting; it’s that simple," an official told the outlet. 

According to the sources, that strategic data enabled Tehran's retaliatory attacks in July against a U.S. base in Jordan—strikes carried out with a level of precision attributed to assistance Iran would not have possessed on its own.

 "There is a reason why their aim has improved, and it is due to a certain kind of assistance," another source indicated. "Battlefield practice helps, but having a helping hand makes a big difference too," the source added.

According to those sources, it is unclear whether Beijing ordered the assistance or merely permits it. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated regarding the matter: "China always strictly fulfills its international obligations. We oppose the use of the conflict to smear China."

In May, the United States sanctioned Chinese satellite companies accused of providing imagery that enabled Iranian attacks on U.S. forces in the Middle East. An official indicated that the issue might be addressed during the state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Washington to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump.

* China's private satellite industry is growing fast in 2026, with commercial companies launching new networks for communication, radar imaging, and data processing.