Taiwan's president has intensified security measures, labeling China as a "foreign hostile force" amid rising threats and espionage incidents. President Lai Ching-te's recent speech, which included a proposal to reinstate military courts, drew sharp criticism from Beijing, which accused him of escalating tensions and endangering peace across the Taiwan Strait.
Lai's announcement followed a high-level security meeting, where he addressed China's increasing "grey zone" tactics and infiltration efforts targeting Taiwan's government, military, and society. He stated that China fits the criteria of a "foreign hostile force" under Taiwan's anti-infiltration laws, necessitating more assertive actions.
"China exploits Taiwan's democratic freedoms to recruit various groups, including media, political parties, and even military personnel, to undermine us from within," Lai remarked. The proposed measures include re-establishing military courts to handle cases of sedition, espionage, and other military offenses.
Taiwan's military court system was abolished in 2014, following criticism over its handling of a hazing-related death. The proposal to bring it back has faced skepticism from opposition parties, who dominate the legislature. KMT legislator Wang Hung-wei expressed reservations, suggesting the ruling party was reversing its stance on human rights. Another opposition group, the TPP, warned that the move could regress Taiwan's human rights progress.
Lai also mentioned plans to tighten restrictions on Chinese visitors and residents, as well as monitor Taiwanese citizens working or traveling in China. Taiwan has prosecuted several military personnel for espionage on behalf of Beijing and criticized local influencers for supporting China's claims over Taiwan.
Recently, a Chinese-born resident was expelled for promoting a Chinese invasion online. China has been offering Taiwanese citizens residency or passports, which Lai sees as an attempt to confuse their national identity.
During China's annual Two Sessions political meeting, officials reiterated their goal to annex Taiwan, emphasizing a preference for peaceful reunification but not ruling out military action. Chen Binhua, spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, warned of decisive responses to any provocations by Taiwan's independence forces.
Taiwan's defense ministry reported detecting 12 fighter jets, seven naval vessels, and a coast guard ship near Taiwan, with several jets crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait.