AI Image
‘Hybrid warfare’: Taiwan drives away 16 Chinese ships
Al Jazeera • • world
Key Points:
- Taiwan confronted and expelled 16 Chinese coastguard, research, and fishing vessels involved in coordinated "maritime harassment" operations around Taiwan’s main island and the disputed Pratas (Dongsha) island.
- The Chinese vessels, including four fishing boats, engaged in what Taiwan described as "hybrid warfare," prompting Taiwan’s coastguard to take forceful action to neutralize perceived threats and prevent attempts to alter the status quo.
- Some Chinese vessels reportedly entered Taiwan’s restricted waters, escalating tensions amid Beijing's claims over Taiwan and Pratas, which Taipei rejects.
- China has significantly increased maritime pressure on Taiwan, with record numbers of Chinese coastguard and other ships operating near Taiwan, including 244 vessels in July compared to 58 the previous year.
- Aside from coastguard and research vessels, China also deploys warships near Taiwan almost daily, further intensifying regional maritime tensions.
