Taiwan, a self-governing island claimed by China, is facing increased military activity in the region as tensions rise.

Recently, China began live-fire exercises near Taiwan, escalating pressure on the island following significant military drills conducted the previous week.

These mid-October exercises, named 'Joint Sword-2024B', involved various military assets around Taiwan, including fighter jets and naval vessels.

In the lead-up to these drills, Taiwan reported a record number of Chinese military incursions, with 153 aircraft and numerous naval vessels detected in a single day.

Taiwan's Defense Ministry is closely monitoring these activities, viewing them as intimidation tactics by Beijing in the Taiwan Strait.

Prime Minister Cho Jung-tai has described the drills as a threat to peace and stability in the region, emphasizing their potential to enhance China's deterrent capabilities.

In response to China's military maneuvers, Taiwan's allies, particularly the United States and Canada, have increased their military presence in the Taiwan Strait.

Over the weekend, a U.S. warship and a Canadian vessel transited the Taiwan Strait, a routine operation that China condemned as disruptive to peace.

China has consistently threatened to take Taiwan by force if necessary, particularly under the leadership of President Lai, whom Beijing labels a 'separatist'.

The U.S. has continued conducting freedom of navigation operations in the Taiwan Strait, reinforcing its commitment to regional stability.

Despite its support for Taiwan, the U.S. is reportedly interested in reducing tensions with Beijing amid its focus on conflicts in other regions.

Lai Ching-te asserts that only the people of Taiwan can determine their future, firmly rejecting Beijing's claims of sovereignty over the island.