The waters around Taiwan are once again a stage for rising tensions. China recently launched its largest-ever live-fire military exercises, deploying new amphibious assault ships, bombers, and warships for over ten hours. These massive drills, effectively “blockade rehearsals,” are a clear message aimed at the self-governed island, signaling a potential encirclement scenario.
Taiwan quickly responded by putting its forces on high alert, calling China “the biggest destroyer of peace.” The drills involved naval and air force units practicing strikes on targets and anti-submarine operations in areas surrounding Taiwan. This aggressive display follows the U.S. announcement of an $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan, further escalating an already delicate situation.
The impact of these exercises extends beyond the military. Taiwan’s aviation authority reported that over 100,000 international air travelers faced flight cancellations and diversions, with critical shipping lanes also affected. The Taiwan Strait is a vital global trade route, seeing $2.45 trillion in trade annually, making any disruption a serious international concern.
Analysts suggest these war games are designed to rehearse a rapid encirclement of Taiwan, aiming to neutralize its defenses and prevent resupply from allies like Japan or nearby U.S. bases. A senior Taiwan security official warned that China seeks to “reshape the international order” through these pressure tactics. The concern remains whether China will push for further provocations, like flying missiles directly over the island, as seen in past drills.
As the situation unfolds, the world watches closely. Taiwan firmly maintains that only its people can decide its future, rejecting China’s claims of national unity. The latest drills underscore the ongoing struggle for peace and stability in one of the world’s most critical geopolitical hotspots.
Source: https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/china-taiwan-war-games-military-exercises-9.7029773?cmp=rss
