Trump doubts China will arm Iran, then threatens them with 'staggering' 50% tariff anyway

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump on Sunday, April 12, warned that China could face steep economic penalties if it was found to be supplying weapons to Iran, amid reports citing US intelligence assessments.

Trump said he doubted Beijing would take such a step but outlined potential consequences if it did. 

The remarks come as tensions remain elevated following conflict in the Middle East and fragile diplomatic efforts. Trump also addressed domestic concerns, saying oil and gas prices could remain steady or rise slightly ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

Trump threatens tariffs if Beijing aids Iranian military

During an interview on Fox News, Trump addressed reports suggesting that China might be preparing to provide military equipment to Iran.

Referencing the claims, he said, “I doubt they would do that... but if we catch them doing that, they get a 50% tariff, which is a staggering amount.”

The warning follows a report by CNN citing unnamed sources familiar with US intelligence assessments, which indicated that China could send air defense systems to Iran in the coming weeks. 

While there has been no official confirmation, the claims have emerged at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions.

Trump reiterated his skepticism about the reports, stating, “I doubt they would do that, because I have a relationship, and I think they wouldn’t do that, but maybe they did a little bit at the beginning.”

He added that his administration’s tariff threat would apply broadly but was directed particularly at China in response to the reports.

Trump even suggested that the United States could supply oil to China as an alternative.

“China can send their ships to us, China can send their ships to Venezuela... we have a lot of overcapacity, and we'll probably sell (oil) for even less money (than Iran),” he said, pointing to US production capacity and broader energy market dynamics.

Trump signals uncertain outlook for oil prices before midterms

Trump also addressed domestic economic concerns, particularly fuel prices, during the same interview. When asked whether oil and gas prices would decline ahead of midterm elections, he responded, “I hope so.”

“I hope so,” he said. “I mean, I think so. It could be, it could be or the same, or maybe a little bit higher, but it should be around the same. I think this won't be that much longer.” 

Fuel prices have risen since the onset of the conflict, reflecting disruptions in global energy markets.

According to data from AAA, the average gas price in the United States is approximately $4.13 per gallon, marking an increase of over a dollar since the start of the war.

Earlier in the year, administration officials had expressed confidence that rising fuel costs would be temporary. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said in March that there was “a very good chance” gas prices could fall below $3 per gallon by the summer.