Iranian authorities are on the verge of finalizing an agreement with China regarding the acquisition of YJ-12 supersonic anti-ship missiles, as reported by Reuters, citing six sources. These missiles have a range of approximately 290 kilometers and are capable of circumventing ship defense systems, which raises concerns among U.S. forces in the region. The enhancement of Iran's strike capabilities through this deal could pose significant threats to American naval assets in the area.

Negotiations between Iran and China over this arms deal have been ongoing for at least two years. They intensified following a recent protracted conflict between Israel and Iran that occurred in June, suggesting that geopolitical tensions are driving the urgency of these military preparations. While precise details regarding the quantity of missiles and delivery timelines remain undisclosed, the strategic implications of such acquisitions are profound, especially given the rising hostilities in the Middle East.

Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that both Iran and its allies have entered into various defense and security agreements and remarked that it is the right moment to utilize these contracts. Meanwhile, there is uncertainty surrounding China's commitment to the agreement, particularly in light of escalating tensions in the region, leaving observers to closely monitor how these negotiations will unfold and what impact they may have on the broader geopolitical landscape.