Kathrine Frich
The same vessels returned with their Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) switched off.
The same vessels returned with their Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) switched off.
China Steps Up Pressure on Taiwan
Tensions continue to simmer in the Taiwan Strait as China increases its military presence near Taiwanese waters.
Four Chinese coast guard ships were spotted near Kinmen’s Beiding Island, triggering alerts in Taipei.
Repeated Intrusions Raise Alarm in Taipei
The Chinese ships entered restricted waters on two separate days. Taiwanese patrol boats were quickly dispatched to intercept them.
Officials used radio warnings in both Chinese and English to force them back.
Ships Return with Trackers Turned Off
Less than 24 hours later, the same vessels returned, this time with their Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) switched off.
This raised suspicions they were attempting to sneak into the area undetected.
Taiwan Responds with Immediate Escort
Despite their stealth tactics, Taiwan identified the ships quickly and again intercepted them.
After close monitoring, the vessels eventually withdrew. Officials emphasized this was not a one-off incident.
China Says It’s “Law Enforcement,” Taiwan Disagrees
Beijing claims the coast guard was on a routine patrol.
But Taiwan rejects this, calling the repeated incursions a form of “harassment” masked as law enforcement.
Experts Call It “Grey-Zone” Warfare
Analysts have labeled these actions as grey-zone tactics, strategic pressure that stops just short of open warfare.
The aim is to wear down Taiwan’s defenses and normalize Chinese presence near the island.
A Dangerous Game of Cat and Mouse
This ongoing pressure campaign has become a near-monthly occurrence.
Chinese ships routinely disable tracking and venture into restricted zones, creating an unpredictable security situation for Taiwan.
Officials warn that one wrong move, like a ship collision or misread radio message, could turn a tense standoff into a full-blown conflict.
Taiwan Asserts Sovereignty
Taiwan’s government insists it will not bow to intimidation.
With its own elected leadership and constitution, it sees itself as a sovereign nation, despite Beijing’s claim that it is a breakaway province.
China has not ruled out using force to take Taiwan. As tensions rise, international observers warn that the Taiwan Strait may be one of the most likely flashpoints for a future war.
