00:00 The Taiwanese military has reported on Thursday that it detected 32 Chinese military aircraft
00:08 around the island within the last 24-hour period, marking the second-highest number
00:12 recorded this year. Additionally, five naval ships were also observed operating near Taiwan.
00:18 Thirteen of the aircraft also crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, according
00:23 to the Taiwan's defense ministry. In response to these activities, Taiwan's armed forces
00:28 monitored the situation closely and deployed patrol aircraft, navy vessel and coastline
00:32 missile system. This incident unfolded amid escalating tensions between China and Taiwan.
00:38 Taiwan, a self-rule island, is claimed by Beijing as a part of its territory with the
00:43 intention to seize it one day, even by force if deemed necessary.
00:48 Beijing has also accused Taiwanese authorities of attempting to evade their responsibilities
00:53 and conceal the truth about the incident. The latest detection of Chinese military aircraft
00:59 is not an isolated event. In late January and early February, the Taiwanese defense
01:04 ministry recorded 33 Chinese warplanes around the island, the highest number observed this
01:09 year. These occurrences coincided with the January 13 presidential election won by the
01:14 current president, Lai Ching-te, a figure disliked by Beijing. Last month, Taiwan also
01:19 reported detection of 11 Chinese vessels operating around its territory, the most recorded this
01:24 year. The subsequent military activity followed
01:27 a dispute between Taipei and Beijing over a fatal fishing boat incident. The incident
01:33 involved a Chinese speedboat that capsized near Taiwan's Kinmen Island while being pursued
01:39 by the Taiwanese Coast Guard, resulting in casualties.
01:43 During the Lunar Year holiday period last month, Taiwan also observed a record number
01:46 of eight Chinese balloons flying over the island over two consecutive days, with some
01:51 directly transversing its airspace. The Beijing's military presence around Taiwan
01:56 has intensified in recent years, with frequent deployment of warplanes, naval vessels, and
02:01 even balloons reflecting the heightened tensions in the region.
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