China's coast guard conducted patrols in waters east of Taiwan on Friday, sparking tensions with Taipei. The patrols were described by China as routine law enforcement, but Taiwan condemned the move as a political operation aimed at expanding Beijing's control.
The move has raised concerns about the escalating tensions between China and Taiwan, with Taipei accusing Beijing of attempting to assert its dominance in the region. The patrols come as China continues to increase its military presence in the South China Sea, a move that has been met with criticism from the international community.