Trump Downplays Report Iran Obtained Chinese Satellite Images Before Jordan Attack

U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday dismissed concerns surrounding a report that Iran obtained satellite imagery of a military base in Jordan from Chinese entities before an attack that killed three U.S. troops in July.

The Wall Street Journal, citing unidentified U.S. officials, reported that Chinese entities provided Iran with satellite images ahead of the deadly strike. Reuters said it could not immediately independently verify the report.

Asked aboard Air Force One whether he planned to raise the issue during an expected meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Trump avoided addressing the question directly. Instead, he compared China's intelligence-gathering activities with those carried out by the United States.

"They basically do what we do," Trump told reporters. "When they say China spies on us, I say you’re right and we spy on them too."

Trump and Xi are expected to meet in the United States on September 24, although Beijing has not officially confirmed the planned meeting.

The U.S. president also emphasized that his relationship with Xi remains positive despite persistent tensions between Washington and Beijing.

"I think he’s behaved reasonably well, and we behave reasonably well," Trump said while returning to the United States following a weekend visit to Ireland.

According to the Wall Street Journal, U.S. officials did not identify the Chinese entities allegedly responsible for providing the satellite imagery to Iran. The officials also did not accuse the Chinese government of directly participating in the intelligence transfer.

Trump's remarks come as his administration seeks to manage U.S.-China tensions while maintaining pressure on Iran. Washington has remained concerned about Beijing's close relationship with Tehran, particularly amid broader geopolitical and security disputes.

The reported transfer of satellite imagery could add another sensitive issue to the U.S.-China relationship ahead of the anticipated Trump-Xi meeting. However, Trump's comments suggest the White House is currently seeking to avoid escalating the matter publicly as Washington and Beijing navigate their broader diplomatic relationship.