Taiwan Reports Increased Chinese Military Activity Near Taiwan Strait
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence has observed a rise in activity by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) near the Taiwan Strait. As of 6 am local time on Saturday, 18 Chinese aircraft and 13 naval vessels were detected. Eleven of these aircraft crossed the median line, entering Taiwan’s southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ).
Taiwan’s military closely monitored the situation and responded promptly. In a post on X, the Ministry stated, “18 PLA aircraft and 13 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 11 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s southwestern and eastern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly.”
On Friday, the Ministry reported that 17 Chinese military aircraft and 11 naval vessels were operating near Taiwan from Thursday morning to Friday morning. Although the types of aircraft and vessels were not specified, the Ministry assured that the situation was under close surveillance.
Incursions by PLA military aircraft and vessels into Taiwan’s ADIZ are not uncommon but have heightened tensions in the region. On July 30, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te accused China of misinterpreting a United Nations resolution to justify its military activities against Taiwan. He condemned China for inaccurately interpreting UN Resolution 2758 and linking it to its “One China” principle. Speaking at the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) summit in Taipei, Lai stated that this move aims to create a legal basis for China’s military aggression and obstruct Taiwan’s efforts to join international organizations.
Doubts Revealed
Taiwan Strait -: The Taiwan Strait is a body of water that separates Taiwan from mainland China. It’s like a big river between two pieces of land.
Ministry of National Defence -: This is a part of Taiwan’s government that takes care of the country’s safety and military. They make sure Taiwan is protected.
People’s Liberation Army -: This is the name of China’s military. They have soldiers, ships, and planes to protect China.
Air Defence Identification Zone -: This is an area in the sky where a country watches for planes to make sure they are safe. It’s like a security check in the air.
median line -: This is an imaginary line in the Taiwan Strait that separates Taiwan’s area from China’s area. It’s like a border in the water.
President Lai Ching-te -: He is a leader in Taiwan. He helps make important decisions for the country.
UN resolution -: A UN resolution is a decision made by the United Nations, a group of countries that work together to solve problems. It’s like a rule or agreement they all follow.
international participation -: This means being involved with other countries in the world. It could be in meetings, events, or working together on projects.