Taiwan’s new president, Lai Ching-te, has officially designated China as a “foreign hostile force” and has increased national security measures in response to escalating threats and a series of espionage cases. The measures announced on Thursday include a controversial proposal to restore Taiwan’s military court system, which was in place until the late 1980s when the country was under martial law. Lai made this announcement following a high-level national security meeting, and it was met with an immediate reaction from Beijing, which labeled Lai as a threat to cross-Straits peace and accused him of inciting crisis and pushing Taiwan towards war.

Lai’s decision comes as a response to China’s increasing encroachment and infiltration into Taiwan’s government, military, and society. He stated that China fits the description of a “foreign hostile force” under Taiwan’s anti-infiltration act and emphasized the need for more proactive measures. This includes plans to re-establish a peacetime military court system to prosecute offenses such as sedition, aiding the enemy, and leaking confidential information.

Opposition parties have raised concerns about the proposal, questioning its validity and expressing fears that it would undermine human rights in Taiwan. Critics point out that Taiwan had abolished its military court in 2014 following the controversial handling of a recruit’s death due to hazing.

Lai also highlighted stricter controls on Chinese travelers and new residents, as well as increased surveillance of Taiwanese individuals in China. This comes as Taiwan has been accused of harboring spies for Beijing, and Taiwanese entertainers and influencers have faced criticism for endorsing Beijing’s claims over Taiwan.

The Chinese government has recently concluded its annual Two Sessions political meeting, where officials reaffirmed their commitment to reunifying Taiwan with China and punishing those recognized as separatists. While they still prefer a peaceful reunification, there is a noted shift towards a more forceful stance if necessary.

On Friday, Taiwan’s defense ministry reported the presence of 12 fighter jets, seven naval vessels, and one coast guard ship around Taiwan since 6 a.m., with nine of the jets crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/14/taiwan-president-lai-ching-te-china-hostile-force-speech