Arabic version: الولايات المتحدة توقف بيع أسلحة بقيمة 14 مليار دولار لتايوان لدعم الحرب على إيران
The United States is pausing a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan to conserve munitions for its war on Iran. Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao announced the decision during a Senate hearing, emphasizing the need to ensure sufficient resources for the military operation known as Epic Fury.
Cao stated, “Right now, we’re doing a pause in order to make sure we have the munitions we need for Epic Fury – which we have plenty.” He assured lawmakers that foreign military sales would continue when the administration deems necessary.
This arms sale, which would represent the largest weapons transfer to Taiwan, is currently pending approval from President Donald Trump after receiving congressional endorsement in January. The pause comes shortly after discussions between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting the sensitive nature of US-Taiwan relations.
Taiwanese Premier Cho Jung-tai affirmed the island’s commitment to pursuing arms purchases despite the delay. Analysts have expressed concern that this pause could exacerbate anxiety and skepticism regarding US support for Taiwan, potentially complicating future defense budget requests from the Taiwanese government.
Trump has indicated that he may use the arms package as a negotiating tool, a move that could provoke a strong reaction from Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory. The US maintains a policy of unofficial support for Taiwan under the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act, but has historically refrained from direct diplomatic engagement with its leaders. According to Al Jazeera, Trump’s recent comments have raised questions about the future of US-Taiwan relations.
