Taiwan is “on alert” after a China made alarming moves on its territory, with Beijing issuing a terrifying war threat out of the blue.

China has launched major military drills around Taiwan for the second time this year, simulating a full-scale attack on the island - just days after the Taiwanese President William Lai delivered his first National Day speech.

China deployed planes and ships around Taiwan in military drills on Monday, issuing a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces. The drills mark the fourth large-scale exercise in two years as Beijing refuses to rule out force in its efforts to control Taiwan. Washington said the drills risk "escalation" as it called on China to act with restraint.

Beijing on Friday said ongoing drills encircling Taiwan were testing the military's ability to seize power over the self-ruled island, days after a new president was sworn in.

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China has simulated precision strikes against key targets on Taiwan and its surrounding waters during a second day of military drills.

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This scenario could easily play out – and the repercussions for the globe would be devastating unless Australia and other countries step in.
Jamie Seidel

The joint combat strike drills are intended to discourage separatism, according to Chinese officials