As high-stakes backchannel talks between Iran and the United States unfold in Pakistan, fresh intelligence claims point to a parallel military buildup. Reports suggest China may be preparing to supply Iran with advanced MANPADS air defence systems, potentially reshaping the next phase of the conflict. While Washington views this as a strategic escalation, Beijing has firmly denied any such transfer, calling the allegations “baseless.” The developments indicate that even as diplomacy plays out publicly, key global players may be quietly positioning for a prolonged confrontation if negotiations collapse.