Members of the US House of Representatives who recently visited Taiwan have warned that a failure to deter China from invading the island could lead to a deadly conflict between Beijing’s troops and the United States. The delegation, led by Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul, met with newly elected Taiwanese government officials to discuss the escalating tensions in the region. McCaul expressed concern that an invasion of Taiwan could escalate to a scale unseen since World War II, leading to significant loss of life and economic damage.
Rep. Andy Barr, co-chair of the House Taiwan Caucus, emphasized the island’s strategic importance for the US and its allies in the Indo-Pacific region. He argued that a Chinese takeover of Taiwan would weaken US security alliances and embolden China to pursue further territorial claims. Dr. I-Chung Lai, president of the Taiwanese think tank The Prospect Foundation, echoed these concerns, stating that an invasion could spark a broader conflict between the US and China as Beijing seeks to target US military assets in the region.
In addition to its strategic importance, Taiwan also plays a critical role in the global economy. It produces 60% of the world’s semiconductors, essential components used in a wide range of electronic devices. Rep. Jimmy Panetta warned that an invasion of Taiwan could trigger a global economic shutdown, disrupting supply chains and impacting industries worldwide.
The lawmakers’ visit to Taiwan comes amid heightened tensions between the US and China over the island. The Biden administration has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Taiwan’s self-governance and has sent warships to the region as a deterrent to Chinese aggression. China, meanwhile, has condemned the US actions and vowed to take all necessary measures to defend its sovereignty over Taiwan.
