China’s Provocations in Taiwan’s Outer Islands Threaten First Island Chain, Expert Warns A confrontation between Taiwan and China near the Pratas Islands risks escalating into a fatal clash, according to an expert. A Chinese coast guard vessel entered waters near the islands on May 23, leading to a standoff and radio warnings with a Taiwanese patrol ship. The Taiwanese crew urged the Chinese vessel to “strive for democracy” instead of asserting jurisdiction.

• An expert warns that a conflict over the Pratas Islands could escalate and damage the ‘first island chain’.
• A Chinese coast guard vessel entered waters near the Pratas Islands on May 23, causing a standoff with a Taiwanese patrol ship.
• The Chinese vessel claimed a routine mission and jurisdiction, while Taiwan urged it to “strive for democracy.”