International News: The Indo-Pacific region is once again becoming the center of global tension. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made a shocking statement at the Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore that China is planning a military attack on Taiwan by 2027. This is becoming a question not only of Taiwan's sovereignty but also of the stability of the entire Asia-Pacific region.
"Taiwan does not stand" America's blunt warning
Hegseth said without any diplomatic oversight, "Now is not the time to talk sweetly. China's intentions are clear, and their response will be equally clear. America stands firmly with Taiwan and its allies." His remarks not only reflect the tough foreign policy of the new Trump administration of America but are also a clear indication that a major conflict is possible in the future.
Warning to Asian countries too
Hegseth also said that the countries of Asia now need to wake up. He called on Japan, India, South Korea, and other allies to increase their defense budgets and step up military readiness. "We have to be prepared for Chinese aggression. This will not just be a war for Taiwan; it will be a test for the whole region," he said.
China's response: "Provocative rhetoric."
China was infuriated by this tough stance of the US. Beijing called it 'provocative rhetoric' and called the US 'the real source of regional unrest.' However, this time China's Defense Minister Dong Jun did not attend the Shangri-La Dialogue, which many countries saw as a sign of China's 'diplomatic distance.'
India got a big signal
The US specifically described India as a major strategic partner and said that there will be a tremendous increase in Indo-US military exercises and technical cooperation in the coming times. The role of QUAD will also be strengthened in the coming years.
Not just Taiwan, the whole world is at stake
Experts believe that if China attacks Taiwan in 2027, it will be a bigger confrontation than the Ukraine crisis. Many countries, including Japan, America, Australia, and India, can be involved directly or indirectly in this.
This could become not just a battle for control over an island, but a global war between democracy and authoritarianism.
