China launched large-scale military exercises surrounding Taiwan on Thursday, encircling the island with its air and naval forces.

The drills, codenamed Joint Sword-2024A, began at 7:45 am local time and involve the army, navy, air force, and rocket force of the Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), according to China's state news agency Xinhua.

The maneuvers come in response to the inauguration of Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te, who called for China to stop its threats towards Taiwan in his inauguration speech on Monday. China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and condemned Lai's speech, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi calling him "disgraceful."

The Chinese spokesperson, Li Xi, stated that the drills serve as a "strong punishment" for Taiwanese "independence" movements and a warning to external powers who interfere with China's claim over Taiwan.

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence condemned the exercises, calling them a threat to regional stability. They stated they would respond with "sea, air and ground forces" and expressed their commitment to safeguarding their national security.

This escalation in tensions comes amidst a long-standing dispute between China and Taiwan, with the United States acting as Taiwan's main arms supplier. China considers Taiwan a part of its territory and seeks reunification, not ruling out the use of force. Taiwan, with a population of 23 million, maintains a separate political system from mainland China. (ILKHA)