Second Iranian Ship Departs China with Suspected Missile Ingredient

The Jairan, an Iranian cargo ship operated by the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL), departed from Zhuhai Gaolan, China, on March 10, 2025. It is suspected of carrying sodium perchlorate, a chemical used to produce ammonium perchlorate, which is essential for solid propellant in missiles. This shipment is part of a reported effort by Iran to enhance its missile capabilities, following the arrival of the first ship, Golbon, in Bandar Abbas, Iran, on February 13, 2025.

Washington, D.C. — This development has sparked concerns among Western countries, particularly the U.S., about Iran’s potential violation of international sanctions. Both ships are under U.S. sanctions, and the cargo could significantly boost Iran’s missile production. The U.S. State Department is aware of the reports but has not commented on intelligence matters, while China asserts compliance with export controls.

The cargo, sodium perchlorate, is estimated at over 1,000 tons for both ships combined, sufficient to produce approximately 260 mid-range Iranian missiles, such as the Kheibar Shekan or Haj Qasem, according to European intelligence sources cited by CNN. This quantity underscores the potential scale of Iran’s missile production capacity, raising concerns about regional security and proliferation.

Geopolitical Implications

This shipment has significant implications for international relations, particularly U.S.-Iran and U.S.-China dynamics. The U.S. has imposed sanctions to curb Iran’s weapons programs, and any entities involved in these transactions could face further sanctions. The involvement of Chinese ports and companies raises questions about enforcement of export controls and potential violations, which could strain relations with Western countries.

Regional security is also at stake, with Iran’s enhanced missile capabilities potentially escalating tensions in the Middle East, especially given recent conflicts and attacks on Iranian facilities. The international community, including members of the Missile Technology Export Control Regime, is likely to monitor these developments closely, possibly leading to diplomatic efforts or increased naval patrols to interdict such shipments.

The departure of the Jairan on March 10, 2025, marks a continuation of Iran’s efforts to import critical missile components, raising concerns about proliferation and sanctions enforcement. As the ship progresses toward Iran, the international community remains vigilant, with potential responses ranging from diplomatic protests to increased monitoring.

This situation underscores the ongoing challenges in curbing Iran’s missile program and the complex interplay of international sanctions and trade.