China monitored U.S. Navy warships sailing through the Taiwan Strait on Tuesday, calling the passage a provocation. State media reported that Chinese forces remained on high alert and tracked the U.S. vessels throughout their transit.
“The U.S. continues to create instability in the region,” a Chinese defense official said. The American ships followed a standard route through international waters.
Washington views these operations as part of its commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation. Beijing, however, sees them as a challenge to its territorial claims over Taiwan.
The U.S. has sent warships through the Taiwan Strait multiple times in recent months. Each passage has led to a strong response from the Chinese military.
Beijing deployed naval vessels and surveillance aircraft to monitor the U.S. warships. Chinese media described the operation as a demonstration of military readiness.
“The People’s Liberation Army is prepared for any situation,” a Chinese military spokesperson said. The government has repeatedly warned against foreign interference in Taiwan.
Tensions between the U.S. and China have increased over Taiwan’s status. Beijing considers the island part of its territory and opposes any foreign military presence in the region.
Taiwan, a self-governing democracy, has received growing U.S. support. Washington provides military assistance and arms sales to strengthen Taiwan’s defense.
Chinese officials accuse the U.S. of undermining stability in the Asia-Pacific. They claim that military activity near Taiwan risks escalating conflicts.
U.S. defense leaders insist that these operations comply with international law. The Pentagon states that the Taiwan Strait remains an open waterway for global shipping.
“The U.S. Navy operates wherever international law allows,” a Pentagon spokesperson said. The White House reaffirmed its commitment to regional security and Taiwan’s defense.
China has increased military drills near Taiwan, including large-scale exercises simulating an invasion. Taiwan has responded by strengthening its own military forces.
Taipei has expanded its defense partnerships with allies, including the U.S. and Japan. Recent arms deals include advanced missile systems and fighter jets.
The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command continues to monitor Chinese military activities. U.S. officials say they remain committed to deterring aggression in the region.
“The U.S. military will uphold international norms,” a senior U.S. official said. Washington’s allies in the region have also expressed concerns about China’s actions.
Japan, the Philippines, and Australia have increased security cooperation with the U.S. These nations view China’s military expansion as a potential threat to regional stability.
China has rejected claims that its actions are aggressive. It argues that the U.S. military presence near Taiwan escalates tensions unnecessarily.
The Chinese government has warned of “serious consequences” if Taiwan pursues independence. It has also opposed any official interactions between Taiwan and U.S. leaders.
Taiwanese officials have dismissed China’s threats. They state that Taiwan will continue strengthening its military and international partnerships.
“The people of Taiwan will decide their own future,” a government spokesperson said. Taipei has urged Beijing to engage in peaceful dialogue instead of military threats.
The latest U.S. transit through the Taiwan Strait follows a pattern of similar operations. The Pentagon says these missions demonstrate America’s support for free and open seas.
China has responded with increased naval patrols and military exercises. Analysts say Beijing aims to pressure Taiwan while deterring foreign involvement.
The situation in the Taiwan Strait remains tense as both nations continue military operations. Future U.S. transits are expected to draw further Chinese responses.
