Taiwan detected seven People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels, four official ships, and three sorties by People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) aircraft around its territory on Monday, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND). The MND reported that one of the three aircraft sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southwestern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).
MND Statement on X
In a post on X, the MND stated: "3 sorties of PLA aircraft, 7 PLAN vessels and 4 official ships operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 1 out of 3 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southwestern part ADIZ. #ROCArmedForces have monitored the situation and responded." The tweet included an image showing the approximate positions of the detected assets.
Previous Days' Activity
On Sunday, the MND recorded four sorties of PLA aircraft, seven PLAN vessels, and three official ships operating around Taiwan. The numbers were significantly higher on Saturday, with the MND reporting 29 sorties of PLA aircraft, six PLAN vessels, and five official ships detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8). Of those 29 aircraft sorties, 17 crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central, and southwestern ADIZ.
China's Stance on Taiwan
China has repeatedly asserted its claim over Taiwan, calling it an inseparable part of its territory. On July 3, Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, stated that Beijing hopes the United States will handle Taiwan-related issues with extra prudence, as the matter has far-reaching implications. He added that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in a conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasized the need to remove disruptions and overcome obstacles to maintain the right course in bilateral relations.
China's claim over Taiwan is rooted in historical, political, and legal arguments, dating back to the Qing Dynasty's annexation of the island in 1683. Beijing's position is embedded in national policy and upheld by domestic laws and international statements. However, Taiwan maintains a distinct identity, functioning independently with its own government, military, and economy. The status of Taiwan remains a contentious issue in international relations, testing principles of sovereignty, self-determination, and non-interference.
