Recent reports from Taiwan's Defense Ministry have revealed that China has deployed its largest regional maritime force in decades, raising concerns about escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait and Western Pacific.
The heightened alert in Taiwan follows President Lai Ching-te's unofficial visits to Hawaii and Guam, which angered Beijing and triggered expected military drills.
Taiwan reported multiple formations of Chinese naval and coast guard vessels moving in regional waters and around the Taiwan Strait, although Beijing has not officially acknowledged these activities.
Lt. Gen. Hsieh Jih-Sheng described the Chinese deployment as 'astonishing' and capable of blocking external forces, extending beyond Taiwan into the Western Pacific and the first island chain.
The People's Liberation Army's naval presence poses a significant threat to Taiwan's security, potentially impeding outside naval support in the event of an invasion.
This maritime deployment marks the largest since China began conducting large-scale war games around Taiwan in the mid-1990s.
Additionally, Taiwan reported a notable increase in Chinese aircraft operating near the island, with 47 jets detected in a 24-hour period.
China has designated reserved airspace zones near its coastal provinces, indicating a heightened military posture in the region.
President Lai's recent visit to the US, where he emphasized solidarity with democratic nations, drew strong opposition from China, which views Taiwan as a separatist territory.
Beijing's military movements and drills serve as a response to perceived provocations, such as arms sales to Taiwan by the US, which China considers a violation of its sovereignty.
China's stance on Taiwan remains firm, with the Foreign Ministry emphasizing that the Taiwan issue is an internal affair and that China will defend its national sovereignty.
