Arabic version: تايوان تدرس مخاطر حصار بحري صيني

According to Al Jazeera, Taiwan has long prepared for a Chinese military invasion, but the wars in Iran and Ukraine are exposing potential new threats. Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz has raised fears that China could seek to emulate such tactics in the Taiwan Strait.

Beijing has always claimed Taiwan as part of its territory. Concerns about a possible blockade are heightened by the United States being caught in the Iran war, creating fears that it would not come to Taiwan’s aid.

A Chinese blockade of Taiwan would carry dire global consequences because the world depends on Taiwan’s semiconductor industry. The possibility has put renewed focus on maritime disruption as a threat distinct from a military invasion.

Al Jazeera’s 101 East examines Taiwan’s preparations for a maritime blockade and meets residents who say they are determined never to surrender. The 25-minute report was published on August 15, 2026.