China Imposes Sanctions on Seven Taiwan ‘Secessionist’ Officials

Facts

• On Tues., China's Taiwan Affairs Office announced sanctions, including an entry ban, on seven Taiwanese officials for allegedly pushing for the island's secession.
• The list of the so-called "independent die-hards" comprises six members of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, including Taiwan's de facto ambassador to the US and the chairwoman of the New Power Party. Five other Taiwanese officials had previously been sanctioned in Dec., including Foreign Minister Joseph Wu.
• On Mon., Beijing carried out a new round of military drills around Taiwan after a bipartisan US delegation led by Sen. Ed Markey arrived in Taipei on Sunday.
• According to Taiwan's defense ministry, 15 out of 30 China's People Liberation Army aircrafts taking part in the latest war games have crossed the median line, an unofficial maritime line in the middle of the Taiwan Strait.
• The sanctions come after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan earlier this month. The trip went ahead despite Beijing's claims that it would increase tensions by boosting the island's independence movement.
• Last week, China revoked its decades-long pledge not to send troops or administrators to Taiwan if it takes control of the island.

Sources: FOX News, SCMP, Al Jazeera, Guardian, and US News.

Narratives

• Pro-China narrative, as provided by Newsbud. Taiwanese secessionists are the main force preventing Chinese reunification by colluding with external forces and undermining peace in the Strait. This latest move demonstrates Beijing's resolve and commitment to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• Anti-China narrative, as provided by US News. Beijing is trying to create antagonism and anxiety over recent developments in Taiwan, a sovereign democracy. This move, however, won't intimidate Taipei leaders, as being sanctioned by an authoritarian regime only proves their determination to democratic values.

Predictions