Post by : Meena Ariff

China has initiated extensive military exercises around Taiwan, focusing on simulating the seizure and blockade of critical locations on the island. The drills, involving ground forces, navy, air force, and missile units, include live-fire operations and are part of an exercise code-named "Justice Mission 2025."

These military activities come just days after the United States announced a significant arms sale to Taiwan valued at $11 billion. The U.S. move drew sharp criticism from Beijing, which responded by imposing sanctions on American defense companies.

Taiwan’s government strongly condemned the upcoming drills, labeling them a violation of international norms. Taiwan’s defense authorities reported the presence of Chinese aircraft and naval vessels near its waters early Monday, prompting the deployment of Taiwan’s own forces and missile defense systems. Taiwan’s military remains on high alert, emphasizing readiness to protect the island and its population.

The Chinese Eastern Theater Command, responsible for the Taiwan Strait area, described the drills as a “shield of justice” aimed at countering forces seeking Taiwan’s independence. China claims Taiwan as a part of its territory and maintains a legal framework allowing for the use of force to prevent the island’s secession, even as it officially advocates for peaceful reunification.

Taiwan’s President, Lai Ching-te, who Beijing accuses of promoting independence, has stated that Taiwan is already a sovereign state and does not need to formally declare independence. In a recent interview, Lai emphasized the importance of strengthening Taiwan’s defense capabilities to deter any invasion attempts, while committing to maintaining the current status quo and avoiding provocation.

Public opinion polls in Taiwan consistently show that most citizens favor maintaining the status quo, neither seeking unification with China nor formal independence.

These drills are the first major exercises overseen by Yang Zhibin, the new chief of the Eastern Theater Command, who took charge in October. Since 2022, China has increased military activities around Taiwan, often responding to perceived threats such as visits by foreign officials or significant political events in Taiwan.

Taiwan itself regularly holds military exercises to prepare its population and demonstrate its defensive strength, with this year’s Han Kuang drills being the largest and longest on record. Taiwan is also investing in new defense technology, including an advanced dome-shaped air defense system.

The growing military tensions around Taiwan are also affecting regional relations, particularly with Japan. Diplomatic ties between China and Japan have worsened recently after Japanese leaders hinted that Japan’s Self-Defense Forces might intervene if China were to attack Taiwan. This has led to diplomatic protests and increased military confrontations between the two nations.

#Global News