Taiwan has expressed support for the United States and Israel in the ongoing conflict with Iran, while calling for greater freedom and democracy for the Iranian people.

The island’s foreign ministry said it backs international efforts to help Iranians pursue democratic rights, positioning Taiwan alongside what it described as the global democratic community.

Officials also condemned Iran’s recent missile and drone attacks targeting countries in the Gulf, describing them as indiscriminate.

Democracy framing reflects Taiwan’s position

Taiwan’s leadership has increasingly framed international conflicts through the lens of democracy, drawing parallels between Israel’s security challenges and its own situation.

The island faces growing military pressure from China, which claims Taiwan as its territory. This has shaped Taipei’s alignment with countries it sees as like-minded democratic partners.

Taiwan has strengthened engagement with Israel in recent years, particularly after the October 2023 Hamas attack and the subsequent conflict in Gaza.

Strong ties despite limited diplomacy

Taiwan does not maintain formal diplomatic relations with either the United States or Israel. However, Washington remains its most important international supporter and arms supplier.

Senior officials in Taipei have described both countries as key partners, with one minister stating that US and Israeli actions are aimed at countering terrorism.

Historical distance from Iran

Taiwan has not had diplomatic relations with Iran since 1971, when Tehran recognised the People’s Republic of China.

The latest statement underscores Taipei’s effort to align itself more closely with Western partners while highlighting democratic values in global conflicts.

(with inputs from Reuters)