Taiwan Conflict Could Trigger Nuclear Escalation: Study
A dispute between the U.S. and China concerning Taiwan could lead to nuclear escalation, with both militaries potentially conducting extensive operations aimed at opposing command and communications centers, a prominent defense research institute stated.
In a strategic evaluation before Asia's largest yearly defense conference in Singapore this weekend, the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) stated that the world was on the brink of a new nuclear arms race "with the Asia-Pacific as its center."
The IISS assessment indicated that "regional states and those with strategic interests are increasing their nuclear arsenals, while non-nuclear weapon states seek long-range conventional-strike capabilities: both are undermining strategic stability."
No quick reply came from U.S. or Chinese officials.
Taiwan, the situation in Iran, and doubts regarding U.S. commitments to the area are anticipated to emerge prominently at the IISS' Shangri-La Dialogue.
The informal gathering takes place from May 29 to 31, attracting a diverse group of ministers, generals, intelligence leaders, diplomats, analysts, and arms manufacturers.
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The occasion comes after a meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump in Beijing earlier this month, raising some anxiety in Taipei regarding the U.S. dedication to assist the democratically governed island in its self-defense.
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Beijing has always maintained that it may resort to force to assert control over Taiwan, yet it has also expressed a preference for "peaceful reunification." Taiwan's administration denies Beijing's assertions of sovereignty.
China has intensified pressure on Taiwan by boosting its military presence near the island, keeping Taipei vigilant for additional Chinese actions after the summit.
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Trump's Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to speak at the Singapore conference on Saturday, while China has not yet confirmed the attendance of its Defence Minister Dong Jun.
The 156-page IISS report analyzes shifting military strategies in the region and explores the potential developments of a conflict regarding Taiwan.