Taiwan Raises Alarm Over Surge in Chinese Military Activity

Taiwan's defence ministry alerted to increased Chinese military actions around the island, highlighting policy instability and posing a threat to neighboring countries. China conducted joint combat patrols and live-fire drills, while Taiwan dismisses China's sovereignty claims. The U.S. and allies expressed concern, maintaining regional navigation rights.

Taiwan's defence ministry has raised alarms over a newfound surge in Chinese military operations surrounding the island. The Ministry accuses Beijing of unstable policies that pose significant challenges to neighboring countries.

On Thursday, the defence ministry reported detecting a second consecutive day of large-scale Chinese military activities. A fleet of 29 aircraft undertook a 'joint combat readiness patrol' with Chinese warships. The previous day, Taiwan warned of 43 Chinese military aircraft operating around the island.

A source familiar with the situation confirmed that Wednesday's flights were part of annual drills, including simulated attacks to practice access denial in potential conflict scenarios. The U.S. and allies, concerned about regional tension, continue to assert navigation rights through the Taiwan Strait.