China opposes any groundless smears or malicious linkage, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Monday in response to reports claiming that China plans to send weapons to Iran.

China has always taken a prudent and responsible approach to the export of military products, and strictly controls such exports in line with its domestic laws, regulations and international obligations, Guo told a regular press briefing.

Responding to US President Donald Trump's threats to impose a 50% tariff hike over alleged military exports, Guo warned that "a tariff war has no winners."