In a recent hearing, the House Select Committee on China highlighted the urgency of preventing a potential conflict in the Indo-Pacific region. The committee emphasized that this Congress might be America's last opportunity to avert war.
Chairman John Moolenaar underscored the importance of acting swiftly, stating, “2027 is not an American date but a Chinese one,” referring to Xi Jinping's directive for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to prepare for taking Taiwan by force. He added, "Deterrence delayed is deterrence denied."
The threat of war was further elaborated upon by retired General Charles Flynn, who noted that an invasion of Taiwan is no longer a distant or theoretical possibility. “You can't invade Taiwan unless you can generate an invasion force—and that is what we must prevent,” he said.
Flynn criticized the U.S.'s focus on sea and air power at the expense of land-based forces capable of countering the PLA's objectives. He remarked, “the PLA does not fear our ships and aircraft... What it fears is a credible force that can counter its Army... before it ever reaches Taiwan.”
Rear Admiral (Ret.) Mark Montgomery warned about China's preparations beyond military means, including cyber threats and economic coercion. He stated, “America’s ability to deter China is withering. And, thus, the risk of a conflict is growing.” Montgomery also pointed out persistent delays in foreign military sales as detrimental to Taiwan's defense capabilities.
Former Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell commended the committee's bipartisan efforts and stressed global attention on America's response. "The real challenge that we face—if we have a faltering of our will... that is what China wants," he said.
With 2027 approaching, there were calls for immediate measures such as bolstering allied land power and reinforcing Taiwan’s defenses. Chairman Moolenaar concluded by thanking witnesses for their contributions: “This hearing is part of that.”
The discussion also touched on why defending Taiwan aligns with American interests:
- Protecting democracy: Supporting Taiwan upholds political freedom against authoritarianism.
- Economic ties: As one of America’s largest trading partners, maintaining relations with Taiwan secures U.S. economic interests.
- Global supply chains: Losing access to Taiwanese semiconductors could trigger severe global economic consequences.
- Regional stability: A CCP takeover would disrupt Asia's security balance.
- Alliance credibility: Defending Taiwan reinforces trust in U.S. commitments worldwide.
- Deterrence value: Strong deterrence now reduces future aggression risks.
The implications for Americans include potential job losses tied to trade with Taiwan and broader economic impacts from disrupted supply chains and market instability.
Ultimately, standing with Taiwan reflects moral values against authoritarianism while emphasizing that proactive defense costs less than engaging in conflict later.
