Taiwan reports increased Chinese activity in its territory

Taiwan’s Defense Ministry has reported increased activity by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) near the Taiwan Strait, with 22 Chinese aircraft, nine People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ships and one official vessel spotted as of 6 a.m. local time on Wednesday.

According to the ministry, 12 PLA aircraft violated the median line and entered Taiwan’s southwestern air defense identification zone (ADIZ). Taiwan’s military closely monitored the situation and responded promptly to the intrusion.

“As of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today, 22 PLA aircraft, 9 PLAN ships, and 1 official ship have been observed around Taiwan. 12 aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and taken action accordingly,” Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense said in a post on X.

As of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today, 22 PLA aircraft, 9 PLAN ships, and 1 official ship have been observed around Taiwan. 12 of these aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and taken action accordingly. pic.twitter.com/RCkAnJC4Wy

— Ministry of National Defense, ROC 🇹🇼 (@MoNDefense) July 24, 2024

The ministry did not specify the type of aircraft or ships involved in the incident, but assured that the situation was being closely monitored. Incursions by PLA military aircraft and ships into Taiwan’s ADIZ are not uncommon, but it has raised tensions in the region, reflecting ongoing geopolitical tensions between Taiwan and China.

The Taiwan Strait separating Taiwan from mainland China has often been a subject of dispute, with Beijing viewing Taiwan as a separate province and claiming sovereignty over the island.

This latest incident comes amid regional security concerns and underscores Taiwan’s continued vigilance in defending its airspace and territorial integrity against Chinese military activity.

As tensions continue, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense is on high alert and prepared to respond to any escalation in the region.

Amid growing threat, Taiwan began military exercises on Monday to test its combat capabilities.

Amid rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait, China has increased its military presence and conducted frequent exercises in the region. The maneuvers are seen as part of Beijing’s ongoing pressure campaign against Taiwan, which China considers a renegade province.