Taiwan and the South China Sea: a flashpoint shaping the U.S.-led order

The article argues that Taiwan’s status and the South China Sea are central to the United States’ strategy toward China, with a potential conflict risking mass ASEAN evacuations and major power competition that could push Beijing’s influence beyond the first island chain. It notes ongoing disputes over China’s maritime claims despite a 2016 arbitration ruling, frequent confrontations in the disputed waters, and Washington’s efforts to maintain presence and deter dominance through carrier redeployments, regional drills, and security partnerships with allies like Taiwan and the Philippines.