China’s military reported on Thursday that it had closely monitored and issued warnings to a U.S. destroyer as it navigated through the Taiwan Strait, a move that has once again heightened tensions between Beijing and Washington. The U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet confirmed that the USS Ralph Johnson made a “routine” transit of the strait, adhering to international law.
Disputed Sovereignty Over the Taiwan Strait
The Taiwan Strait remains a highly sensitive area, with China asserting sovereignty over Taiwan and claiming jurisdiction over the strait. In contrast, Taiwan and the United States maintain that the strait is an international waterway, allowing for free navigation under international law. This disagreement continues to be a significant point of contention in U.S.-China relations.
China’s military, through its Eastern Theatre Command, described the U.S. Navy’s transit as “public hype” and confirmed that it had deployed naval and air forces to monitor and warn the U.S. ship. The command stated that it would “deal with it in accordance with the law and regulations” and emphasised that its troops remain on high alert, prepared to safeguard national sovereignty and security as well as regional peace and stability.
Taiwan’s Response
Taiwan’s defence ministry reported that the USS Ralph Johnson sailed in a northerly direction through the strait. While Taiwanese forces monitored the situation, they noted that nothing unusual occurred during the transit.
The U.S. military routinely conducts such transits through the narrow strait, with ships and aircraft passing through about once a month. These operations are part of the U.S. commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation in international waters, despite China’s objections.
Ongoing Tensions Over Taiwan
Taiwan’s government firmly rejects China’s sovereignty claims, asserting that only the island’s people have the right to determine their future. China, on the other hand, has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, keeping the region in a state of ongoing tension.
This latest incident underscores the persistent friction between the U.S. and China over Taiwan, a flashpoint in their broader geopolitical rivalry. As both nations continue to assert their positions, the Taiwan Strait remains a focal point for potential conflict in the region.
(With Inputs from Reuters)
