China staged large-scale military exercises around Taiwan, mobilizing army, navy, air, and rocket units in a show of force following a major U.S. arms deal with Taipei. Dubbed “Justice Mission-2025,” the two-day drills included live-fire exercises and rocket launches, some landing closer to Taiwan than in previous exercises.

Taiwan condemned the drills as “military intimidation” and deployed fighter jets, naval vessels, and coastal missile systems to monitor the situation. Over 130 Chinese warplanes and 22 ships participated, with 90 jets crossing the Taiwan Strait’s median line.

China framed the exercises as a warning to “Taiwan independence” forces and foreign interference, while U.S. and Taiwanese officials stressed the right to defend the island. The $11.1 billion U.S.-Taiwan arms deal includes HIMARS rocket systems, drones, and other defensive weapons, angering Beijing.

The drills also disrupted civil aviation in Taiwan, canceling dozens of flights and affecting over 6,000 travelers. Analysts note that China’s increasingly complex exercises simulate blockades, signaling a strategy to deny foreign military intervention around Taiwan.

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Meanwhile, a statement from Belize’s foreign ministry,”condemns the continued military intimidation by the People’s Republic of China against the Republic of China (Taiwan). Such actions undermine peace, stability, and dialogue across the Taiwan Strait. Belize reaffirms its strong support for Taiwan and for the peaceful resolution of differences in accordance with international law.”