Rising Tensions: Taiwan Detects Chinese Military Activity Amid Sovereignty Dispute

Taiwan reports detecting 29 Chinese military aircraft and several naval vessels near its territory, leading to a defensive response. Beijing's provocations have increased, sparking sharp statements on Taiwan's sovereignty. The situation adds complexity to US-Taiwan relations as global focus intensifies on the island's geopolitical significance.

On Wednesday, Taiwan detected 29 Chinese military aircraft, eight naval vessels, and one official ship operating near its territory from 6 a.m. (local time) to 6 a.m. on Thursday. According to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND), 20 of these aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's northern, southwestern, and eastern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ).

Reacting to the incursions, Taiwan deployed aircraft, naval ships, and coastal-based missile systems to monitor the activity of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). The MND stated, "29 PLA aircraft, 8 PLAN vessels and 1 official ship were detected around Taiwan. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly."

This activity is part of a series of increased military provocations by Beijing since September 2020. China has escalated its use of gray zone tactics, involving frequent air and naval incursions into Taiwan's ADIZ and military exercises near the island. Despite being governed independently since 1949, Taiwan is claimed by China as part of its territory, with the latter insisting on eventual reunification, by force if necessary.

Earlier this month, Lin Yu-Chang, Secretary-General of Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), emphasized Taiwan's sovereignty at an event in San Francisco. He stated that Taiwan's sovereignty is inviolable, reflecting themes prevalent in President Lai Ching-te's speeches. Lin highlighted Taiwan's growing global significance amid events like the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine War, noting bipartisan support for Taiwan in the United States.

Lin is currently on a 13-day visit to the US, focusing on Taiwan-US relations amid contentious global dynamics. His visit includes stops in New York, Washington, DC, and Houston. Lin declined to disclose details of his meetings with US officials, citing sensitivities related to the upcoming US presidential election and tense US-China relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)