China's military sent 103 warplanes toward Taiwan in a 24-hour period on September 17-18, 2023, in a record show of force. The planes included fighter jets, bombers, and mid-air refueling tankers. They flew near the median line, which is an unofficial border between Taiwan and mainland China.
Taiwan's defense ministry said that the Chinese military's actions were "provocative" and "destabilizing." It also warned that the Chinese military could escalate its activities in the future.
The United States condemned the Chinese military's actions, saying that they were "a threat to regional peace and stability." The US also called on China to cease its military provocations against Taiwan.
The Chinese military's increased activity near Taiwan comes at a time of heightened tensions between the two sides. China claims Taiwan as its own territory and has threatened to use force to bring it under its control. Taiwan, on the other hand, considers itself an independent country.
The US has a long-standing policy of "strategic ambiguity" on Taiwan, which means that it does not explicitly say whether it would defend Taiwan if it were attacked by China. However, the US has also said that it would "help Taiwan defend itself."
The increased Chinese military activity near Taiwan has raised concerns about the possibility of a conflict between China and the US. The two countries are the world's two largest economies and militaries, and a conflict between them would have devastating consequences for the global economy.
It is important to note that the Chinese military's actions on September 17-18 do not necessarily mean that China is preparing to attack Taiwan. However, they do signal a significant increase in Chinese military activity near the island. This increase in activity is a cause for concern and could lead to an escalation of tensions between China and Taiwan.