Taiwan investigating suspected gray zone action by China after undersea cable cut

The Taiwan Coast Guard Administration (CGA) recently detained the Chinese crew of a Togolese-registered vessel suspected of severing an undersea fiber optic cable connecting the islands of Taiwan and Penghu. The vessel in question, the Hong Tai 168, had been lingering within close proximity of the cable since 7 p.m. local time on Feb. 22. Upon receiving confirmation that the Taiwan-Penghu No. 3 undersea cable had been cut at 3 a.m. on Tuesday, the coast guard took action to detain the crew.

The CGA officials dispatched a coast guard vessel to the Hong Tai 168 at 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday, demanding that the vessel vacate the area. The crew of the Hong Tai 168 consisted of eight Chinese nationals, all of whom were detained by the coast guard. Taiwan’s Ministry of Digital Affairs confirmed that communications were rerouted to alternative cables following the incident, ensuring that there was no disruption to services.

The CGA classified the incident as potential “gray zone” activity by China, referring to hostile actions that do not escalate to the level of warfare. Taiwan’s government has announced plans to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. This development comes amidst tensions between China and the United States, following the removal of language opposing Taiwan’s independence from the State Department’s website.

The U.S. has long maintained a delicate stance on Taiwan, adhering to the “One China” policy which recognizes Beijing as the sole government of China. Despite not having formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, the U.S. has provided defense funding and support to the island nation. Chinese President Xi Jinping has reiterated China’s willingness to use military force to reclaim Taiwan, while Taiwan asserts its independent status as a self-governed democracy.

As the situation unfolds, Taiwan remains vigilant in safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The international community closely monitors developments in the region, as tensions between China and Taiwan continue to simmer. The detained Chinese crew of the Hong Tai 168 awaits further investigation as Taiwan seeks to uphold its rights and protect its vital communication infrastructure.