On Tuesday, a U.S. Navy aircraft traversed the Taiwan Strait, which the U.S. characterized as a demonstration of its commitment to maintaining free and open international airspace. This action led China to deploy fighter jets in response to what it perceives as its territorial waters.

The U.S. 7th Fleet stated that the P-8A Poseidon’s flight was conducted in accordance with international law, reinforcing the navigational rights and freedoms of all nations. China, asserting its claim over the democratically governed Taiwan, views Western military movements in the region as provocations.

The Eastern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army of China reported that its jets were dispatched to monitor and “alert” the U.S. aircraft. Over the past five years, China has intensified its military presence around Taiwan, including conducting war games, and has not ruled out the use of force to assert control over the island.

Last week marked the first transit of German navy ships through the Taiwan Strait in twenty years, demonstrating Berlin’s commitment to supporting its Western allies regarding Taiwan.