Hegseth Declares China an 'Imminent' Threat to Taiwan, Calls for Enhanced Asian Defence**

Hegseth characterized China's ambitions in the region as hegemonic and expressed the need for a robust deterrent strategy among Asian nations. He emphasized cooperation with the US to avoid a military confrontation over Taiwan, while China's response labelled the US as a key source of regional instability.**

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has sounded the alarm over what he describes as an "imminent" threat posed by China to Taiwan, calling on Asian nations to bolster their defense budgets and collaborate with the United States to prevent conflict. During a significant defense summit held in Singapore, Hegseth asserted that America does not aspire to dominate China but will not be coerced out of Asia or allow its allies to be intimidated.

Hegseth's remarks come amid rising concerns regarding China's assertiveness, particularly regarding Taiwan, a self-governing island claimed by Beijing. The Chinese government has not ruled out using military force to retrieve what it considers its territory. At the Shangri-la Dialogue, he characterized China's rise as an effort to become a "hegemonic power" controlling significant portions of the region. He highlighted alarming military preparations by Beijing, referencing a 2027 timeline posited by US military officials for when China might be capable of invading Taiwan, a claim yet to be confirmed by the Chinese government.

In a stern warning, Hegseth stated any attempt by Communist China to forcibly gain control over Taiwan would lead to severe repercussions, not only for the Indo-Pacific region but worldwide. “The threat China poses is real. And it could be imminent," he warned, clarifying that while the US doesn't seek conflict, it will prepare its allies and partners for defense.

The Chinese embassy in Singapore responded by branding Hegseth's speech as inflammatory and accusing the US of being the principal disruptor of peace in the region. They condemned claims of a "China threat" and highlighted what they view as US actions exacerbating regional tensions, including military deployments and reconnaissance operations.

Hegseth further contended that deterrence against aggression from China demands investment. He urged Asian nations to match European defense spending levels in light of the growing threats, framing it as essential for collective security. He provided examples of recent advancements in US military partnerships in the region, including the establishment of a radar repair center in Australia for allied military assets.

Regarding economic ties with China, Hegseth warned that engaging with Beijing could undermine US defense strategies as China could leverage these relationships for strategic gain. His proposals came in conjunction with French President Emmanuel Macron’s suggestion for Europe to act as a supportive partner to Asia.

In the wake of Hegseth’s statements, some US lawmakers voiced criticism, arguing that his tone appeared patronizing while emphasizing that the US must uphold its commitment to allies based on shared values of human rights and international order. Responses from Asian leaders remain cautiously optimistic about increased US presence but reflect apprehension about compliance with heightened defense expectations in light of historical hesitations.

Hegseth's appeal to escalate defense cooperation underscores a longstanding dynamic in US-Asian relations, suggesting a more decisive push for enhanced military readiness in the shadow of China's ambitions. How Asian countries navigate this call to action remains to be seen as they weigh their options amidst the growing pressures of regional stability.