17.02.2025 08:21
Tensions between China and Taiwan are escalating. Defense ministry sources reported that 41 military aircraft and 9 ships belonging to China were detected in the Taiwan Strait from last night to this morning, stating that the military is monitoring the situation and will provide the necessary response.
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In a statement made on the social media platform X by the Taiwan Ministry of National Defense, it was reported that 41 military aircraft were observed around the island from last night until this morning, of which 28 crossed the "median line" that is assumed to limit the spheres of influence of the parties in the Taiwan Strait and flew in the northern, central, and southwestern parts of the area declared as Taiwan's "Air Defense Identification Zone."
"THE TAIWAN ARMY WILL PROVIDE THE NECESSARY RESPONSE"
The statement also shared information that 9 warships belonging to the Chinese navy were detected around the island, noting that the Taiwan army is monitoring the situation and has provided the necessary response. The flights and naval patrols drew attention following the passage of a Canadian warship through the Taiwan Strait yesterday.
CANADIAN FRIGATE PASSED THROUGH THE TAIWAN STRAIT
The "Halifax" class Ottawa frigate belonging to the Canadian navy passed through the Taiwan Strait yesterday. This passage marked the first for Canadian warships through the Taiwan Strait this year and the sixth since 2022. The Beijing administration reacted to the passage, describing it as "an act aimed at deliberately creating problems in the Taiwan Strait and undermining peace and stability."
CHINA-TAIWAN DISPUTE
Claiming that Taiwan is part of its territory, China has had de facto independence since 1949. The separation and sovereignty dispute that arose after the civil war between mainland China and Taiwan continues. In recent years, the Beijing administration, which has increased military pressure on Taiwan, emphasizes that it will not rule out the use of force if necessary for the island's reunification with the mainland.
China, which also sees the Taiwan Strait as its territorial waters, opposes the military presence of other countries in the region. The navigation and reconnaissance activities of foreign navies in the area are causing tensions between countries.
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