China says its fighters shadowed US Navy patrol plane over Taiwan Strait
China’s military said on Wednesday that it had deployed fighter jets to monitor and warn a U.S. Navy patrol aircraft that flew over the sensitive Taiwan Strait. This incident occurred weeks before Taiwan is set to hold elections. China claims sovereignty over Taiwan, which is a democratically governed nation, and asserts jurisdiction over the strait. However, Taiwan and the United States disagree, stating that the Taiwan Strait is an international waterway.
The U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet confirmed that the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance plane, used for anti-submarine missions as well, flew over the strait in international airspace. The 7th Fleet emphasized that the aircraft’s transit of the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the United States’ commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region. In a statement, they clarified, The United States military flies, sails, and operates anywhere international law allows.
In response to China’s military action, the Eastern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army described the flight as public hype and claimed that they had sent fighters to monitor and warn the U.S. plane, dealing with it in accordance with the law and regulations. They emphasized their commitment to defend national sovereignty, security, and regional peace and stability. Taiwan’s defense ministry reported monitoring the U.S. aircraft as it flew through the strait and considered the situation to be normal.
China has increased its military activity around Taiwan over the past four years, conducting two rounds of major war games in the region within the last year and a half. The upcoming January 13 presidential and parliamentary elections in Taiwan have been portrayed by China as a choice between war and peace.
This latest incident highlights the ongoing tensions between China, Taiwan, and the United States, as well as the strategic complexity of the region. It raises concerns about potential military conflicts and the possible impact on regional stability.
As the election in Taiwan approaches, all involved parties will likely closely watch for any further incidents or developments in the Taiwan Strait. The international community will be monitoring the situation as well, considering the potential consequences for the geopolitics and security dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region.
