The Ministry of National Defense of Taiwan reported detecting 19 Chinese aircraft, including fighter jets and drones, flying near the island for nearly four hours last Sunday as part of a 'joint combat readiness patrol' by Beijing with warships. This was the third such patrol this month.
The Ministry declared that the Taiwanese military closely monitored the situation and deployed joint intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems, as well as aircraft, warships, and ground missile systems as an appropriate response. Meanwhile, Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office criticized this action as a threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait region.
In response to the recent U.S. arms sale to Taiwan, Beijing condemned the decision and called for an end to support for the island, claiming it undermines previous agreements. In the meantime, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense expressed gratitude for the sale, stating that it would strengthen the island's defense capabilities and contribute to maintaining peace in the region.
Tensions between China and Taiwan have escalated recently, with Beijing claiming the island as part of its territory and showing a frequent military presence around it. This situation has been exacerbated by the recent escalation of Chinese military exercises near Taiwan.
The United States has been a key ally of Taiwan and its main arms supplier, which has generated additional tensions with China. Despite lacking formal diplomatic relations with the island, Washington has continued to support its defense, provoking adverse reactions from the Chinese government, including sanctions against U.S. companies.