China Military Drills Around Taiwan Disrupt Flights and Raise Regional Tension

China carried out major military drills around Taiwan on Monday. The exercises involved air, navy, and missile units near the island. Taiwan placed its forces on alert and warned of rising danger in the region. The drills hit air travel hard, with more than 100,000 passengers affected. The moves followed anger in Beijing over a large U.S. arms sale.Taiwan said the actions showed China was the main threat to peace. According to AP News, Beijing called the drills a stern warning to separatist forces. The exercises took place in several zones across the Taiwan Strait. China said the operation was needed to protect its sovereignty.

China Military Drills Mark One of Beijing’s Largest Shows of Force

China used destroyers, fighters, bombers, drones, and long‑range rockets in the drills. The exercises covered areas north, southwest, southeast, and east of Taiwan. Short patrols and strike missions tested sea‑air coordination. Taiwan tracked 89 aircraft on Monday, with 67 entering its response zone. The Defense Ministry also spotted 14 navy ships near the strait.According to Reuters, Taiwan warned the drills would cause wider global impact. The island said such actions raise risks for shipping and air routes. China set up seven danger zones for rocket firing on Tuesday. These blocks will last from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Taiwan said more than 850 international flights were scheduled in that window. Airlines began canceling or delaying routes.Taiwan said the drills were meant to intimidate the public. China said its goal was “all‑dimensional deterrence.” Tensions grew after Japan’s prime minister noted Japan could act if China attacked Taiwan. China also imposed sanctions on U.S. defense firms after Washington approved more military support for Taipei.

Why the Drills Matter for Regional Stability

The drills show how fast the region can shift under pressure. China sends planes and ships near Taiwan almost daily. But this exercise was larger and more direct. Taiwan says Beijing wants to tighten control and test global reaction. The United States remains bound by federal law to support Taiwan’s defense. That long‑standing rule is a major point of strain with Beijing.Analysts warn the exercises could shake markets and travel routes. Airlines may avoid parts of the strait if drills continue. Neighboring countries also monitor the moves closely. Many fear a miscalculation could set off a wider conflict. The drills spread worry across Asia and the Pacific.

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The China military drills highlight the deep divide between Beijing and Taipei. The exercises may continue to shape regional politics and security. Many officials now call for calm as the strait faces new strain.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: Why is China holding military drills near Taiwan?

China says the drills are a warning to separatists and foreign forces. It claims Taiwan as its own territory. Taiwan rejects this and says China uses intimidation.

Q2: How many flights were affected?

Taiwan said the drills disrupted more than 100,000 travelers. Over 850 international flights were scheduled during the danger zone hours. Dozens of domestic flights were also canceled.

Q3: How did Taiwan respond?

Taiwan placed its military on high alert. The Defense Ministry said its rapid response forces were activated. It warned that China was raising regional risk.

Q4: What did the U.S. do before the drills?

Washington approved a major arms sale to Taiwan. China reacted with sanctions on U.S. defense firms. The sale still needs final approval in Congress.

Q5: Will the drills continue?

China said it will run exercises through Tuesday. Seven danger zones have been set up. Taiwan warns more drills could follow.

Trusted Sources: AP News, Reuters, BBC