China openly threatens to use force against Taiwan: escalating regional tensions
Official statements from Chinese authorities indicate that Beijing is not ruling out the potential use of military force to achieve its political objectives concerning Taiwan.
On Wednesday, October 29, spokesperson of China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, Pen Chen-yen, issued a notably harsher statement than previous rhetoric in state media, asserting that China ‘will absolutely not rule out’ the possibility of force.
This signals that the military scenario remains a key element in China’s regional ambitions regarding the island.
Meanwhile, Chinese officials emphasize peaceful solutions, yet retain the right to take all necessary measures.
Taiwanese President William Lai, addressing military officers, highlighted the importance of resolve in defending the island’s independence amidst growing Chinese military pressure.
Beijing continues to label Taiwan a ‘separatist province’, refusing to engage in negotiations with Taipei.
Van Huning, China’s top official for Taiwan policy, in a speech on Saturday, October 25, avoided mentioning force explicitly, emphasizing the benefits of reunification under the ‘one country, two systems’ model.
Experts note that such statements indicate persistent regional tensions with potential escalation as key diplomatic meetings between global leaders approach.
Last year, Hong Kong, reincorporated into China in 1997, held its first ‘patriot-only’ elections, prompting criticism about democracy and freedoms.
As regional developments unfold, China’s hardline policies aim to undermine Taiwan’s sovereignty, framing it as a subordinate province.
Ahead of the upcoming summit between U.S.
President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in South Korea, tensions are mounting over trade, influence, and regional dominance, with implications for Taiwanese security and international stability.