The Foreign Desk Explainer 449: Is China cutting Taiwan’s cables or are their wires crossed?
Jan 8, 2025
Recent damage to undersea cables near Taiwan raises questions about intentional sabotage linked to geopolitical tensions with China. The discussion delves into the implications of these incidents for Taiwan's infrastructure and how they fit into a broader pattern of global cable damage. What are the stakes for both sides in this tense situation? Explore the intricate web of international relations surrounding these crucial lines of communication.
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Taiwan Cable Cut
- A rusty freighter, possibly directed by China, cut a Taiwan undersea cable on January 3rd.
- Taiwan quickly rerouted data, minimizing disruption.
Frequent Cable Cuts
- This cable-cutting incident isn't isolated; Taiwan's cables have been cut roughly 30 times in the past five years.
- While accidents can happen, Taiwan suspects China's involvement, given their history of harassment.
Baltic Sea Cable Incident
- In 2022, several cables in the Baltic Sea were cut near a suspiciously maneuvering Chinese ship.
- Sweden was denied permission to board the vessel, which later returned to China via the Suez Canal.