How US missile shortages after Iran war could strengthen China’s hand during Trump visit

US missile shortages, stemming from its war in Iran, could weaken Donald Trump's negotiating position during his upcoming visit to China. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is accompanying Trump, a rare occurrence for a Pentagon chief visiting Beijing. These depleted stockpiles raise concerns about US military readiness in the Indo-Pacific. Furthermore, China's control over critical mineral supplies, essential for replenishing US military assets, could grant Beijing additional leverage in discussions with the US. The visit, occurring this week, highlights potential geopolitical implications of the US arms depletion.

Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Beijing for a summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, marking the first US presidential visit to China in nearly a decade. This trip, delayed by Trump's actions regarding Iran, is significantly different from his 2017 visit, which was a "state visit-plus" with extensive pageantry. The current geopolitical climate is marked by trade wars, the pandemic, and increased US concerns about Chinese military activity, creating a more tense atmosphere. The summit's optics will be closely watched, with Xi likely to use the occasion to assert China's strengths while subtly acknowledging US vulnerabilities, particularly in light of recent events in the Middle East. Despite potential displays of personal rapport between the leaders, underlying frictions are expected to persist.

Taiwan is closely monitoring the upcoming meeting between President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing, fearing that Taiwan's status could be a bargaining chip. Officials and observers in Taiwan are concerned that Trump might make concessions regarding Taiwan's future in exchange for cooperation on trade, fentanyl, or global issues. Taiwan's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed fear of Taiwan being "on the menu" of discussions. Experts warn that a behind-the-scenes agreement could lead to reduced U.S. arms sales to Taiwan or diminished international participation for the island. President Trump has acknowledged China's opposition to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, indicating it will be a topic of discussion.

The article argues that the United States' opposition to Taiwan independence is strategically beneficial for America, particularly as President Trump prepares to visit China. It posits that a clear US stance against independence now could minimize costs and maximize returns. The author states that Taiwan is a core national interest for China, and Beijing's position on reunification and opposition to secession is unlikely to change. Recent US actions, such as arms sales and congressional signaling, are perceived by Beijing as encouragement to separatist forces on Taiwan, increasing the risk of miscalculation. The article suggests that such moves, while potentially offering short-term political gains in Washington, ultimately jeopardize US interests in avoiding conflict with China, stabilizing markets, and securing cooperation on critical global issues.

Taiwan's legislature approved a NT$780 billion (US$26 billion) special defense budget last week, a move analysts suggest was influenced by US pressure ahead of a summit between Presidents Trump and Xi. The budget, passed by opposition parties Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan People's Party (TPP), aims to address concerns over China's military pressure and potential US concessions to Beijing regarding Taiwan. While the approved amount is less than the government's initial proposal, it significantly exceeds the KMT's previous stance and covers US arms sales. However, it excludes many indigenous weapons programs favored by the ruling party. This development occurred amidst mounting anxiety in Taipei regarding the upcoming Trump-Xi meeting.

Ahead of President Trump's visit to Beijing, Al Jazeera analyzed the economic and military standing of the US and China. The report highlights China's significant rise as a global economic power, surpassing the US in exports. In 2024, China was the world's largest exporter with $3.59 trillion in sales, while the US ranked second with $1.9 trillion. This shift contrasts with 25 years ago when the US dominated global trade. The article uses maps and charts to compare the two nations across economics, military, resources, and technology, noting China's emergence as the "factory of the world" and its increasing influence.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing on May 6, 2026, amid escalating US-Iran tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. The meeting highlights China's significant interest in the conflict, particularly concerning the disruption of global oil and gas flows. Wang Yi emphasized the urgency of a ceasefire and continued negotiations. The visit precedes a meeting between US President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where the US has urged China to pressure Iran to ease its blockade of the strait. Both the US and China are experiencing economic impacts from the shipping disruptions, suggesting a shared interest in reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

President Donald Trump's upcoming visit to Beijing, delayed by six weeks, faces a potential point of friction with Chinese President Xi Jinping: the war in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. While both nations desire the strait's reopening and an end to the conflict, their approaches differ significantly. The US, with its energy independence, may believe China is more susceptible to energy disruptions. Conversely, China might perceive prolonged instability as more detrimental to the US and its allies. This divergence in perspective on the Iran crisis could complicate discussions during the summit.

President Trump expressed optimism about a potential peace deal with Iran, though he acknowledged past difficulties and indicated it was unlikely US envoys would attend a second round of talks in Islamabad. Reports suggested a preliminary 14-point memorandum was being considered to end hostilities, unblock the Strait of Hormuz, lift sanctions, and curb Iran's nuclear program. However, skepticism exists among some US officials and Iranian parliamentarians, who view the reported points as a US "wish list." Experts caution that even an initial agreement might not resolve complex issues, citing the lengthy negotiations required for previous nuclear deals. Trump has previously claimed Iran agreed to terms, which Tehran denied.

On day 66 of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump announced "Project Freedom," a naval mission to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively blockaded. This action follows Iran's claim to have received a US response to its peace proposal, which Trump had previously deemed unacceptable. Iran's military warned that any US interference in the strait would be considered a violation of the ceasefire and result in an attack. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue, with Pakistan discussing regional stability and NATO allies assuring increased support for the US. Australia and Japan are also enhancing cooperation due to trade disruptions caused by the conflict.

The Strait of Hormuz standoff between the US and Iran is unsustainable for either side. Despite US military superiority, Iran has gained control of the strait, impacting oil prices and trapping over 1,550 vessels. A recent US initiative, "Project Freedom," aimed at creating a safe shipping zone, collapsed after only 50 hours due to objections from Saudi Arabia and a lack of consultation with major shipping companies. Iran has demonstrated resilience as an adversary, capable of threatening and damaging tankers. The situation highlights the instability in the Middle East, with neither side achieving strategic dominance.

Iran is reportedly considering a US proposal aimed at ending the current conflict, according to an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson. While Iran reviews the proposal, a parliamentary official warned of a "harsh and regret-inducing response" if the US does not concede. Former President Trump also threatened intensified bombing if a deal isn't reached, while claiming Iran has agreed to forgo nuclear weapons. The US previously stated its offensive operation had concluded after achieving objectives. The conflict has significantly impacted the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, with a ceasefire in place since early April, though maritime traffic remains limited.

President Donald Trump is set to visit China for a summit with President Xi Jinping next week. This visit occurs amidst global energy supply disruptions and economic uncertainty caused by the Iran war, which have also strained US-China relations. Six months prior, when the summit was proposed, Trump was in a stronger political position than Xi. However, Trump now travels to Beijing facing political challenges and military overextension. Experts suggest these factors will influence the dynamics of the upcoming meeting between the two leaders.

President Trump's foreign policy regarding Iran has seen rapid shifts in recent days. Initially, he suggested Iran had not faced sufficient consequences, then proposed "Project Freedom" as a humanitarian effort to ease tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. However, by Wednesday, Trump announced significant progress towards a complete agreement, pausing Project Freedom to allow for negotiations. These policy changes reflect the administration's struggle with Iran's capabilities, including its ability to disrupt shipping and its nuclear program, within a complex geopolitical situation. Reports indicate a potential memorandum of understanding with Pakistan as a mediator, aiming to end blockades and initiate talks on Iran's nuclear program, sanctions, and frozen assets.

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will launch "Project Freedom" on Monday to help free ships stuck in the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as a humanitarian gesture. The operation aims to address ships running low on supplies due to the ongoing blockade. Trump warned that any interference with this effort would be met with a forceful response. The initiative comes amid soaring oil prices and public discontent with the war, which has impacted Trump's approval ratings. It remains unclear if this operation will involve coordination with Iran or if it risks disrupting the fragile ceasefire.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock in Beijing on Wednesday, urging global unity to safeguard international justice against powers prioritizing "might over right." Wang criticized unnamed countries for challenging the UN's role and promoting the "law of the jungle." The meeting occurred amidst the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran and a global energy crisis caused by blockades of the Strait of Hormuz. Wang reaffirmed China's commitment to the UN-centered international system and pledged support for Baerbock's efforts to unite member states around sovereign equality.

On day 60 of the Iran war, diplomacy is gaining momentum as the US reviews an Iranian peace proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This plan coincides with potential delays to nuclear talks. Iran's Foreign Minister met with Russian President Putin, indicating Tehran is considering resuming negotiations amidst ongoing tensions. Dozens of nations have urged the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route. Iran asserts its armed forces would control the Strait under a proposed law and blames the US for stalled talks, condemning the capture of two Iranian-linked oil tankers as "high seas robbery." Critics question the Iran nuclear expertise of Trump's negotiating team, despite their access to the President.

King Charles III's visit to the US aims to strengthen the UK-US "special relationship," but it occurs amid tensions. US President Donald Trump has publicly criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for his stance on the US-Israeli war on Iran, questioning his support and comparing him unfavorably to Winston Churchill. Despite historical conflicts, the US and UK have largely maintained a strong alliance, notably during World War II when they coordinated war efforts and the US provided crucial aid through the Lend-Lease Act. This visit highlights the ongoing dynamic of close partnership punctuated by periodic strains.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a defiant statement asserting Iran's control over shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and pledging to protect the nation's nuclear and missile programs. The statement, read on state television, declared a "new chapter" for the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz, claiming Iran would secure the region and eliminate "enemy abuses." Khamenei vowed to guard Iran's technological capacities, including nuclear and missile programs, as national capital. This comes amidst a US counter-blockade of Iranian oil ports and reports of Khamenei's injury following his father's death. The statement suggests Iran's intent to implement a new fee regime in the strait, which is crucial for global oil transit.

Russia's political support for Iran and its stance against military escalation are more significant than military aid in the current conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel. This position, solidified by a 2025 treaty, prioritizes peace over short-term gains like rising oil prices, which Russia recognizes as insufficient for economic restructuring amid Western sanctions. Moscow's strategic focus is on conflict resolution and mitigating negative consequences such as humanitarian crises, global economic slowdowns, and financial instability. Iran views Russia's stance as beneficial, having successfully withstood attacks and secured a favorable diplomatic position with limited international support for the US and Israel. European allies have shown reluctance to engage militarily, perceiving little benefit in the conflict.