German Warships Poised for Historic Taiwan Strait Passage

Two German warships are preparing to possibly traverse the disputed Taiwan Strait next month, marking the first such passage by the German navy in decades. This maneuver risks heightening tensions with China, which asserts sovereignty over Taiwan and claims jurisdiction over the Strait.

Two German warships are on standby for orders from Berlin to potentially navigate through the contentious Taiwan Strait next month, a route that could escalate tensions with China, according to their commander, Rear Admiral Axel Schulz.

Although the U.S. and several other nations have recently sent ships through the Strait, it would be the German navy's first attempt since 2002. China regards the Taiwan Strait as part of its sovereign territory, while Taiwan and the U.S. assert that it is an international waterway.

The naval task force, including the frigate Baden-Wuerttemberg and the replenishment ship Frankfurt am Main, will make stops in Tokyo, South Korea, and the Philippines before potentially passing through the strait. Their mission aims to demonstrate commitment to a rules-based order, free shipping lanes, and peaceful conflict resolution in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)