Taiwan Conducts First-Ever Military Tabletop Exercise amid Rising Tensions with China

Taiwan has held its first tabletop exercise simulating a military escalation with China, reflecting the island's concerns over increased Chinese military activities near its territory.

The war game, which lasted three hours, involved dozens of central and local government agencies and civil groups, according to officials.

The exercise was conducted within the Presidential Office in Taipei, led by Vice President Hsiao Bi-Khim and National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu. Officials stated that the simulation included scenarios such as China's "high intensity" grey-zone warfare and situations where the island faced imminent conflict. The goal was to evaluate the readiness of government offices and civil society in responding to potential crises.

President Lai Ching-te emphasized the urgency of strengthening Taiwan’s defenses, noting that the region's peace and stability are increasingly under threat. "The first island chain is being collectively challenged by authoritarian states," Lai said, referencing the strategic area that stretches from Indonesia to Japan, encompassing the South and East China Seas.

Beijing has conducted two significant military exercises around Taiwan this year, named "Joint Sword - 2024A" and "Joint Sword - 2024B," in May and October, respectively. These actions are part of a broader strategy to exert pressure on Taiwan, which China claims as its territory.

Taiwan, self-governing since 1949, is considered a breakaway province by China, which opposes any official engagement between Taiwanese and foreign governments. Beijing severed ties with Taiwan's government in 2016 after President Tsai Ing-wen rejected the "One China" principle.

China's military maneuvers have coincided with global concerns over semiconductor chip supply, as Taiwan is a key player in this industry. Experts have warned of potential international involvement should a conflict arise.