The US has sought responses from Japan and Australia regarding the potential for a China-Taiwan war. No questions have been posed to India so far, but pressure may increase in the future.
Taiwan China Conflict: The US administration under Donald Trump has posed a crucial question to its key allies, Japan and Australia, regarding the China-Taiwan dispute. The question is: what would be your role if China were to launch a military attack on Taiwan? According to a report in the Financial Times, the US wants to clarify which side its allies would take in the event of a future military conflict.
Unease over Seeking Responses from Japan and Australia
According to the report, this question was raised by US Under Secretary of Defense Elbridge Colby in discussions with officials from Japan and Australia. This move is seen as an attempt to send a b message to China. However, the question was uncomfortable for both countries because the US itself has not yet clarified whether it would intervene militarily in the event of a Chinese attack on Taiwan.
US Strategy and the Role of Allied Nations
Elbridge Colby stated on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that the US Department of Defense is working on the President's 'America First' agenda. The main focus is to expect more participation from allies in collective security and to strengthen regional resistance.
What is the relationship between the US and Taiwan like?
Although the US and Taiwan do not have official diplomatic relations, the US is the largest arms seller to Taiwan. This cooperation takes place under the 'Taiwan Relations Act,' under which the US promises to provide Taiwan with the resources necessary for self-defense.
A message against China or confusion?
Some analysts believe that this step by the Trump administration is meant to warn China. However, if countries like Japan and Australia do not take a clear stance, it could backfire. It could also signal that the US might be isolated on this issue.
What are the concerns of Japan and Australia?
Both Japan and Australia are located in the Indo-Pacific region and are within China's missile range. Involvement in any military conflict could be a risky decision for them. Although both are strategic allies of the US, direct military intervention in the case of Taiwan is not part of their stated policy.
What is India's position?
India is a strategic partner of the US but not part of any formal military alliance. So far, the Trump administration has not directly questioned India on this issue. However, if a military conflict arises over Taiwan in the future, the US may expect at least moral support or an anti-China statement from India.
