Taiwan‑China Coast Guard Clash Near Pratas Islands

Taiwan and China’s coast guards faced off again near the Pratas Islands on Friday, a repeat of an earlier encounter within two weeks. The Pratas lie between Taiwan and Hong Kong, more than 400 km from the main island, making them a point of tension. The Taiwanese coast guard spotted a Chinese vessel cutting through restricted waters after speeding and turning sharply, ignoring warnings. Both ships remain in close proximity, exchanging heated words. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, a claim Taipei denies. In recent years China has increased military activity around Taiwan, heightening regional unease.Taiwan’s statement says the Chinese ship is trying to assert control over the waters, which could destabilise peace in the Taiwan Strait. The coast guard insists that its maritime sovereignty must be respected. The last standoff ended when the Chinese vessel withdrew, but this new confrontation shows the situation remains volatile. The Pratas Islands are a Taiwanese national park and are lightly defended, leaving the coast guard to manage security. Earlier this year a Chinese drone briefly flew over the islands, adding another layer of concern for Taiwan. The incident highlights ongoing disputes in the South China Sea and the importance of maintaining calm.