Taiwan’s defense ministry reported on Friday that it had identified 14 Chinese military aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait within the last 24 hours.
Historically, the median line has functioned as an informal boundary between the two sides, but Chinese military aircraft now routinely breach it. China has stated that it does not acknowledge the line’s legitimacy.
This recent incident comes on the heels of renewed Chinese military activity near Taiwan, with 12 aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, occurring just a day after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded his visit to China.
Despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations, the United States remains Taiwan’s principal international supporter and arms provider. During his visit to China, Blinken emphasized the “critical importance” of upholding peace and stability in the region.
Taiwan, a democracy, has been facing escalating military pressure from China, which asserts sovereignty over the island. However, Taiwan’s government vehemently rejects these territorial claims.
According to Taiwan’s defense ministry, on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. local time, a total of 22 Chinese military aircraft, including Su-30 fighters, were detected. Among them, 12 had breached the median line, advancing towards Taiwan’s northern and central regions.
