Taiwan’s Right to Self-Defense

The United States approved a $2 billion arms sale to Taiwan to bolster the island’s defenses amid increasing Chinese military threats. Taiwan expressed gratitude, highlighting the importance of self-defense for regional stability. China criticized the move, stating it undermines its sovereignty and harms U.S.-China relations, warning of countermeasures. The arms deal follows recent Chinese military exercises simulating blockades around Taiwan.

Editor’s Note: The arms sale to Taiwan raises an important question: why shouldn’t Taiwan, a self-governing territory, be allowed to defend itself as any other sovereign nation? Taiwan operates as an independent entity, with its own democratic government, institutions, and economy, yet China continually insists on its sovereignty over the island.

By selling defensive weapons to Taiwan, the U.S. reinforces Taiwan’s right to self-defense, emphasizing regional stability in the face of China’s aggressive military drills and rhetoric. If Taiwan’s right to security is perpetually questioned, it sets a dangerous precedent for smaller or self-ruled states around the world, where larger nations might feel entitled to dictate their defense choices. [See also: The Philippines’ Struggle Against China’s South China Sea Aggression]

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