China Launches Military Drills Near Taiwan Amid Tensions Over Election

China has launched military drills around Taiwan as a response to what it perceives as “separatist acts” following Taiwan’s election and the inauguration of a new president. Chinese state media reported PLA fighter jets conducting mock strikes with live missiles against “high-value military targets”, accompanied by navy and rocket forces. Taiwan condemned the drills as irrational provocation, enhancing sea, air, and ground force alertness while strengthening base security and monitoring air defense. Named Joint Sword-2024A, the exercises involve various military branches operating in the Taiwan Strait and nearby islands, reflecting heightened tensions. Analysts suggest the exercise signals potential future drills targeting Taiwan. China claims Taiwan as its province and vows annexation, while Taiwan adamantly rejects CCP rule, urging China to halt threats and engage in dialogue. Recent years saw China intensifying pressure on Taiwan, including increased air force incursions, economic coercion, and cognitive warfare. The drills expand to Taiwan’s offshore islands, indicating evolving PLA strategies. Deputy Commander of US Indo-Pacific Command, Lt Gen Stephen Sklenka, urged condemnation of China’s actions, emphasizing that conflict is not inevitable. China’s coast guard, involved in drills, escalates patrols near Taiwan’s islands, reflecting its strategy to shrink Taiwan’s territorial space. Japan, a close ally of the US, expresses concern and plans to communicate with Beijing to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, given its proximity to Taiwan.