Taiwan has accused China of conducting "dangerous" military manoeuvres after multiple Chinese aircraft entered its air defence identification zone (ADIZ). The incident marks the latest escalation in tensions between the two nations, as Beijing continues to assert its territorial claims over the self-ruled island.
Growing Tensions in the Taiwan Strait
According to Taiwan's defence ministry, 43 Chinese military aircraft were detected in its ADIZ over a 24-hour period, with some crossing the median line—an unofficial buffer zone in the Taiwan Strait. This comes just days after Taiwan reported another large-scale incursion involving 37 Chinese warplanes.
Taiwanese officials have condemned the actions as "provocative" and warned that such behaviour increases the risk of accidental conflict. The island's defence forces have been placed on high alert, deploying air patrols and missile systems in response.
China's Expanding Military Presence
China, which views Taiwan as a breakaway province, has significantly increased military pressure in recent years. Analysts suggest these flights are part of a broader strategy to normalise Chinese military presence near Taiwan and erode its sovereignty.
Meanwhile, the Philippines has also raised concerns over Chinese maritime activities in the South China Sea, further complicating regional stability. Hong Kong-based airline Cathay Pacific has reportedly adjusted flight paths to avoid potential conflict zones.
International Reactions
The United States and other Western allies have expressed support for Taiwan, calling on China to "refrain from destabilising actions". However, Beijing remains defiant, insisting its activities are "legitimate and necessary" for national security.
As tensions simmer, experts warn that the situation could escalate further, particularly if China intensifies its military drills ahead of key political events.
