China’s military recently conducted the largest maritime and air exercises near Taiwan in decades, involving over 125 aircraft, warships, and the Liaoning aircraft carrier. The drills, referred to as “Joint Sword-2024B,” simulated a blockade of key Taiwanese ports and signaled Beijing’s strong opposition to the island’s independence. This follows Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s recent speech rejecting Beijing’s sovereignty claims over the self-governed island.
The exercises, viewed by Taiwan and the U.S. as provocative, represent Beijing’s response to perceived “separatist acts.” The drills included coast guard maneuvers near Taiwan-controlled islands and simulated missile launches, though no live fire was reported. Taiwan responded by deploying defense forces and maintaining heightened alerts, asserting its commitment to democracy and sovereignty.
Washington has condemned China’s actions as undermining regional peace, urging restraint. The drills have amplified global concerns over the Taiwan Strait’s stability, a critical route for international trade. Observers highlight the growing intensity of Beijing’s military exercises as a potential rehearsal for broader conflict scenarios
