The U.S. military has detected Chinese naval vessels and military aircraft operating near Taiwan, raising concerns about regional stability. The Taiwan Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported that within a 24-hour period, they tracked 13 Chinese military aircraft and six navy vessels operating in the region.
This surge follows the previous day’s detection of 36 Chinese aircraft and six naval vessels. These incidents highlight the escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command released a video showing a close encounter between a Chinese warship and an American destroyer in the Taiwan Strait.
According to the U.S., the Chinese ship overtook the USS Chung-Hoon, forcing it to slow its course to avoid a collision. China defended its actions, asserting that it always respects international law but considers the strait part of its “exclusive economic zone” rather than international waters.
Taiwan is a self-governing island, but China claims it as part of its territory. The situation has led to ongoing tensions between the two countries.
The U.S. accused the Chinese ship of violating the maritime “rules of the road” by coming within 150 yards of the USS Chung-Hoon during routine duties in the Taiwan Strait. The U.S. emphasised its commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, sailing and operating responsibly within international law.
However, China defended its actions as lawful and justified, stating that it respects the rights of navigation and overflight under international law. However, some international patrols are seen as provocations by China.
The rising number of incidents in the Taiwan Strait adds to the tension between the world’s two largest economies as both sides continue to assert their positions of interest.