In a significant escalation of tensions, the Taiwanese Ministry of Defense disclosed that a record-breaking number of 103 Chinese warplanes were detected flying near the island within a 24-hour period. This surge in military activity by Beijing has raised concerns and prompted Taiwan to call for an immediate halt to China's destabilizing actions.
The intensified aerial incursions, described as the most extensive in recent times, highlight China's efforts to exert pressure on Taiwan. The Taiwanese government warned that such provocative behavior could lead to a dangerous escalation and pose a threat to regional security.
Approximately 40 of the warplanes crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, breaching Taiwan's southwestern and southeastern air defense identification zones. In addition, nine Chinese navy vessels were identified, and further flights were observed south of Taiwan, passing through the Bashi Channel.
This recent surge in tension is rooted in the strained relationship between Beijing and Taipei, particularly since the presidency of Tsai Ing-wen, who supports Taiwan's independence. China considers Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve reunification. In recent years, China has intensified diplomatic and military pressures on the island.
The increased Chinese military activities have not only impacted Taiwan but have also raised concerns among neighboring countries such as the Philippines and Japan. The Japanese Defense Ministry reported sightings of Chinese ships, including the aircraft carrier "Shandong," sailing south of the MiyaKojima island, east of Taiwan.
As tensions continue to rise, China has not officially commented on its maneuvers in the western Pacific. These developments come in the wake of previous large-scale military drills conducted by China, which included simulations of a blockade of Taiwan following President Tsai Ing-wen's visit to the United States.
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