Taiwan’s defence ministry has issued a warning of a possible sharp increase in military tensions following renewed Chinese military activity in the Taiwan Strait. The ministry reported that it spotted 12 Chinese military aircraft on Tuesday morning, seven of which crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait. These aircraft consisted of six J-10 fighters and a single drone. Taiwan, which is claimed by China as its own territory, has been facing increased military pressure from Beijing for the past three years. This pressure mainly comes in the form of China’s air force flying near the island. Tuesday’s incident also saw five Chinese ships carrying out combat readiness patrols, the defence ministry said, without providing the location. The median line has traditionally served as an unofficial barrier between Taiwan and China, but China’s air force began regularly crossing it a year ago, leading to increased tensions. The defence ministry has called on Beijing to immediately stop such unilateral acts, stating that continued military harassment by China may worsen regional security. The ministry emphasized the importance of maintaining the peaceful and stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait for the security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region. It emphasized that all parties, including Beijing, have a common responsibility to uphold this status quo. The incident coincided with the arrival of Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an, who is from Taiwan’s main opposition party, in Shanghai for annual city-to-city talks. Chiang’s office stated that the city government believes that communication between the two sides is crucial, especially in a challenging environment. The office emphasized that what the people of Taiwan want is peace and prosperity. Taipei city councillors from Taiwan’s governing Democratic Progressive Party issued a joint statement calling on Chiang to speak for the Taiwanese people and demand an end to China’s military activities. The defense ministry’s warning comes as tensions between Taiwan and China continue to escalate, with China increasing its military presence and conducting regular military drills near the island. Taiwan, on the other hand, has been strengthening its military capabilities and seeking support from other countries, particularly the United States. The situation in the Taiwan Strait remains a critical issue for regional security, and further developments will be closely monitored.