TAIPEI: Tensions rise as Taiwan’s air force was forced to scramble on Sunday when 10 Chinese warplanes breached the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait, marking the second incident of renewed Chinese military activity within a week.
The island’s defense ministry reported that four Chinese warships also conducted combat patrols in the area.
China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, has been regularly flying its air force near the island over the past three years, but it has not crossed into Taiwan’s territorial airspace. However, the recent incidents demonstrate a more aggressive stance by China. The median line of the Taiwan Strait, previously regarded as an unofficial barrier, has been routinely crossed by Chinese military aircraft since last year, despite Taiwan’s objection.
According to Taiwan’s defense ministry, as of 2 PM (0600 GMT) on Sunday, a total of 24 Chinese air force planes, including J-10, J-11, J-16, and Su-30 fighters, as well as H-6 bombers, were detected. While the exact locations of their flights were not specified, it was confirmed that 10 aircraft crossed the median line.
Chinese Naval Ships Engagement
In addition to the aerial activity, four Chinese naval ships were engaged in “joint combat readiness patrols,” as stated by Taiwan’s defense ministry, without providing further details. Taiwan responded to these provocations by deploying its own fighters and positioning ships and land-based missile systems to monitor the situation.
China’s military has not yet responded to the latest incident. In the past, China has justified its military operations near Taiwan as necessary to protect its sovereignty and counter alleged collusion between Taiwan and the United States, Taiwan’s primary international supporter and arms supplier.
The Taiwanese government vehemently rejects China’s sovereignty claims and asserts that only the people of Taiwan can determine the island’s future. Despite President Tsai Ing-wen’s repeated calls for dialogue with China, Beijing considers her and her party to be separatists and has rebuffed her offers.
As tensions continue to escalate, Taiwan’s Vice President William Lai, who is running as the ruling Democratic Progressive Party’s candidate in the upcoming presidential elections, addressed his supporters in a video message. Lai pledged to do his utmost to maintain the peaceful status quo in the Taiwan Strait if he wins the presidency, according to his campaign office.
