The $70M arms package represents one of Tehran's most notable efforts to bolster its air defenses following its recent conflict with the U.S. and Israel, the publication noted.
According to Reuters, the contract entails the procurement of between 300 and 400 QW-12 and FN-16 MANPADS equipped with infrared guidance systems designed to target low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and drones. Their mobility enables rapid deployment around military sites, energy infrastructure, and other sensitive installations.
The deal was executed with Hong Kong-registered company Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment, which served as an intermediary between Iranian authorities and the Chinese supplier.
Reuters sources noted that while the agreement has been signed, delivery schedules, volumes, and other specifics remain subject to change. Under the current logistics plan, shipments will be air-freighted from Urumqi in western China, transiting through Pakistan en route to Iran.
China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs dismissed the report as "completely groundless."
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) of the Pakistan Armed Forces similarly declared the reports false.
The remaining parties did not respond to journalists' requests for comment.
Iran's threats against Ukraine
On July 25, Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) reported that Ukrainian drones struck the Russian Project 12418 Molniya missile corvette. Drones also hit the cargo vessels Port Olya 2 and Begey, both under international sanctions for transporting military cargo between Iran and Russia.
That same day, Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the Ukrainian strike on the vessel in the Caspian Sea, stating that Tehran reserves the right to defend its "national interests and security."
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later issued a series of statements threatening Ukraine with retaliation over the ship strike, framing the attack as an attempt to drag Europe into the war.
In response, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Iran is de facto participating in Russia's war against Ukraine by supplying the Kremlin with Shahed drones, manufacturing technology, and other weaponry. Concurrently, the president noted that Ukraine "must act cautiously" to "prevent the opening of a new front."
On July 28, reports circulated across Ukrainian Telegram channels claiming Iran allegedly planned to launch a missile strike against Ukraine within 48 hours. Later, Andrii Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council, stated that while no official intelligence confirmed Tehran's immediate intent, Iran possesses the potential capability to strike Ukraine.
That same day, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reported holding a phone conversation with Araghchi, emphasizing that Ukraine's objective is to avoid unnecessary escalation. Following the call, Iran's foreign minister similarly stated that Tehran does not seek escalation.