Taiwan Reports Chinese Fighter Jets Crossing Taiwan Strait Median Line After Blinken Visit

On April 27, 2024, Taiwan reported that 12 Chinese aircraft, including Su-30 fighters, crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, just a day after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to China. During his visit, Blinken stressed the critical importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region.

According to Taiwan's defense ministry, a total of 22 Chinese military aircraft were detected, with 12 of them crossing the sensitive median line to Taiwan's north and center. The Chinese aircraft were involved in "joint combat readiness patrols" with Chinese warships. Taiwanese aircraft and ships responded appropriately to the Chinese military activity.

China has been increasing military pressure on Taiwan, which it claims as its own territory despite the Taiwanese government rejecting those claims. The median line in the Taiwan Strait was once an unspoken barrier respected by both China and Taiwan, but China's air force now frequently conducts flights across this line.

Why this matters: The incident highlights the ongoing tensions and potential for escalation between Taiwan and China over the status of the Taiwan Strait. It also underscores the challenges faced by the US in maintaining stability in the region while supporting Taiwan, which China considers the most important issue in its relations with the United States.

Taiwan's president-elect, Lai Ching-te, who takes office on May 20, has called for talks with China. However, Beijing considers him a dangerous separatist and has rejected his calls. Taiwan's armed forces, while well-equipped, are significantly smaller than China's military.

The incident occurred just a day after Blinken's visit to China, where he reiterated the US one China policy and expressed concerns over China's destabilizing actions in the region. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of maintaining open lines of communication and agreed to continue high-level diplomacy.

Key Takeaways

• Taiwan reported 12 Chinese aircraft crossed Taiwan Strait median line after Blinken's China visit.
• China conducted "joint combat readiness patrols" with warships near Taiwan, raising tensions.
• Taiwan's president-elect Lai called for talks, but Beijing considers him a "dangerous separatist".
• US reiterated one-China policy, but challenged by China's destabilizing actions in the region.
• Both sides agreed to maintain open communication and continue high-level diplomacy after Blinken's visit.