China’s military has initiated new war games near Taiwan following the island’s National Day celebrations. The exercises, known as Joint Sword-2024B, are being conducted in areas surrounding Taiwan and focus on sea-air combat-readiness, blockades, and assaults on targets. The drills have been condemned by Taiwan’s Ministry of Defence, which has dispatched forces to protect its sovereignty.
President William Lai Ching-te’s recent National Day speech, in which he vowed to resist any attempts at annexation or encroachment, has prompted these military activities from China. Experts believe that Beijing is demonstrating its resolve to defend its territorial claims and issuing warnings to Taipei and Washington not to challenge its authority.
Beijing’s tactics, including military exercises, have been seen as responses to Lai’s speech and efforts to erode Taiwan’s global presence. Despite Lai’s call for dialogue in his address, Chinese state media have criticized him, accusing him of advocating for a “two-state” theory.
Analysts suggest that China may be using these military drills to test international reactions amid global conflicts and tensions. As China continues its efforts to isolate Taiwan diplomatically, the United States remains a crucial ally and supplier of weapons to the island nation.
Overall, Beijing’s military manoeuvres near Taiwan highlight the ongoing tensions between the two entities and underscore China’s determination to assert its authority over the self-ruled island.
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