China Conducts New Military Drills Near Taiwan Following National Day Celebrations
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China’s military has started new war exercises around Taiwan referred to as Joint Sword-2024B, which involve sea-air combat readiness patrol and assaults on maritime and ground targets, with the spokesman for the Chinese military’s Eastern Theatre Command declaring these drills as necessary for state sovereignty and national unity. Taiwan has condemned China’s actions, responding with appropriate forces to protect their freedom, democracy, and sovereignty. The drills are seen as a message to Taiwan and the U.S not to cross Beijing’s boundaries, and an assertion of China’s resolve to defend its territory, especially after Taiwan’s President William Lai Ching-te, in his recent National Day address, pledged to resist any annexation or encroachment from Beijing.
China’s Military Begins War Games Near Taiwan After National Day
China’s military has initiated a new set of war games, Joint Sword-2024B, near Taiwan, shortly after the island celebrated National Day. According to Captain Li Xi, the exercise will involve an “assault on maritime and ground targets.” The drills, involving 25 PLA aircraft and 11 ships, are a response to Taiwan’s independence stance.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Defence has criticized these “irrational and provocative actions,” indicating they have dispatched forces to defend Taiwan’s sovereignty. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s president, William Lai Ching-te, has recently reaffirmed his commitment to resist any “annexation or encroachment” from Beijing.
Bonnie Glaser, managing director of the German Marshall Fund’s Indo-Pacific programme, notes these drills serve as a domestic show of strength by the CCP and a warning to Taipei and Washington.
‘It will pass’
Beijing has warned that “separatist acts of Taiwan independence forces” might prompt military action. After President Lai took office in May, they staged military exercises, Joint Sword-2024A.
Lev Nachman, a political science professor, states that China’s actions are not surprising and will likely pass quickly. Despite China’s Global Times describing Lai’s recent speech as a “poison pill,” he has expressed hope for dialogue and urged Beijing to help resolve international conflicts.
Despite this, the Beijing-backed media accuse Lai of promoting a “two-state” theory. Observers suggest China’s seeming aggression could be a test of the international response amidst global upheavals like the Russia-Ukraine war and Middle East conflicts.
The United States has expressed serious concern at the latest drills, calling on Beijing to act with restraint and avoid further escalation. As Taiwan’s main international supporter, the US remains committed to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
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