A new intelligence analysis has revealed a covert oil-for-weapons pact between China and Iran, signaling a growing Russia-China-Iran axis amid Western pressure. According to Dryad Global, Iran has been bartering crude oil exports for advanced Chinese military hardware, including HQ-9B air defense systems, missile guidance technology, and drone components. The deal reportedly bypasses sanctions using a shadow fleet of over 470 tankers operating under false flags and front companies. Meanwhile, Russia is also stepping up arms transfers to Iran, including S-400 systems and Su-35 fighter jets, to strengthen Tehran’s defenses after Israeli strikes in June exposed vulnerabilities.