China Defends Coast Guard Patrols as Taiwan Reports Grey Zone Tactics

The Government of China and Taiwanese authorities are clashing over increased maritime activity in the waters surrounding Taiwan. The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council defended Chinese coast guard patrols as lawful and necessary measures to protect territorial sovereignty. Spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian stated these operations are a legitimate response to Japan and the Philippines, whom she accused of illegally bypassing China to launch unilateral maritime delimitation talks.

Conversely, Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration (CGA) reported to the Legislative Yuan that Beijing is employing grey zone tactics to normalize its presence and reshape the status quo without triggering open conflict. The CGA identified the deployment of China Coast Guard vessels and research ships, such as the Tongji and Xiang Yang Hong 22, which have entered restricted waters. This includes a first-time entry near Itu Aba in the Spratly Islands and unauthorized activities near the Pratas Islands.

Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te claimed these operations undermine regional peace and the rules-based international order. In response to the incursions, the CGA is monitoring vessels via radar, issuing radio warnings, and dispatching patrol ships to expel intruders. Meanwhile, Zhu Fenglian criticized the Democratic Progressive Party for supporting foreign actors and using the maritime situation to promote Taiwan independence.