UK warns it could battle China over Taiwan
(MENAFN) British Defense Secretary John Healey has stated that the UK could resort to military force against China if tensions over Taiwan escalate, although he stressed that diplomacy remains the preferred approach. His comments, made during a visit to Australia, represent one of the clearest indications yet that Britain is considering the possibility of direct involvement in a conflict with China.
Healey’s remarks came as the HMS Prince of Wales — a British aircraft carrier equipped with F-35 fighter jets — arrived in Darwin, Australia. This marks the first British strike group deployment to the region in nearly three decades. The vessel is on a nine-month mission in the Pacific, taking part in Australia’s Talisman Sabre drills and scheduled to visit Japan and South Korea.
“If conflict becomes unavoidable, the UK and Australia would fight side by side,” Healey told The Telegraph, highlighting that joint training enhances their readiness and deterrence. He noted, however, that he was speaking in general terms and that Britain’s official stance on Taiwan remains unchanged.
China views Taiwan as part of its territory under the One-China policy and aims for peaceful reunification, while reserving the right to use force if necessary. Taiwan has been self-governed since 1949 following the Chinese Civil War. While most countries, including Russia, recognize Taiwan as part of China, the UK and US maintain unofficial relations and provide military support to the island.
Last month, Beijing condemned a British naval vessel’s transit through the Taiwan Strait, calling it a provocative move that threatened regional stability.
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