Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence has reported increased activity by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) near the Taiwan Strait. On Saturday, more than 28 Chinese aircraft, including J-16s and KJ-500s, were detected. The Ministry noted that 27 of these PLA aircraft crossed the median line, entering Taiwan’s northern, central, southwestern, southeastern, and eastern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). Taiwan’s military closely monitored the situation and responded quickly to the breach.
In a post on X, Taiwan MND said. “Overall 28 #PLA aircraft in various types (including J-16, KJ-500, etc.) were detected from 0750hr today. Out of which, 27 crossed the median line of the #Taiwan Strait and entered the northern, central, southwestern, southeastern and eastern ADIZ.” Earlier in the day, Taiwan identified 18 Chinese aircraft and 13 People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels by 6 am local time on Saturday.
The Ministry of National Defence reported that 11 of the PLA aircraft crossed the median line, entering Taiwan’s southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). Taiwan’s military carefully monitored the situation and quickly responded to the breach. In a post on X, the MND said, “18 PLA aircraft and 13 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 11 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s southwestern and eastern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly.”
On July 30, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te criticised the Chinese government for misinterpreting a United Nations resolution to rationalise its military actions against Taiwan. He condemned China for incorrectly interpreting UN Resolution 2758 and improperly linking it to its “One China” principle.
Speaking at the annual summit of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) in Taipei on Tuesday, Lai stated that this action is intended to “construct a legal basis for China’s military aggression against Taiwan” and to hinder Taiwan’s attempts to engage with international organisations.
