Archive · 31 Jul 2026
China Coast Guard Patrols East of Taiwan, Taiwan Responds
China’s coast guard sent a ship called Xiushan to patrol waters east of Taiwan.
Taiwan sent a ship called Taipei to watch the Chinese ships and said the patrols were a political move, not just law‑enforcement.
China’s spokesperson said the patrols were to keep navigation safe and protect fishermen.
Taiwan said the patrols were a way for China to try to take more control.
A U.S. Coast Guard ship, the Midgett, was seen with a Taiwanese ship, showing the U.S. and Taiwan are working together.
The incident shows how tense the area is and how both sides see the situation differently.
China’s coast guard conducted routine law‑enforcement patrols east of Taiwan on July 31, led by the ship Xiushan.
Taiwan’s Coast Guard sent the vessel Taipei to monitor the Chinese ships and condemned the patrols as a political operation.
Chinese spokesperson Jiang Lue said the patrols were to ensure orderly navigation and protect fishermen’s rights.
Taiwan accused Beijing of “fake law enforcement, real expansion of power” and vowed to defend national sovereignty.
The U.S. Coast Guard cutter Midgett was seen in formation with a Taiwanese vessel, indicating coordination.
- Who
- China’s coast guard and Taiwan’s coast guard
- What
- Patrols and monitoring of Chinese ships by Taiwan
- When
- July 31, 2024
- Where
- East of Taiwan, Pacific coast near Lanyu
- Why
- China claims law enforcement; Taiwan claims political expansion
- Date
- July 31, 2024
- Location
- East of Taiwan, Pacific coast
- China's vessel
- Xiushan
- Taiwan's vessel
- Taipei
- U.S. vessel involved
- Midgett
- Spokesperson
- Jiang Lue