Why it matters:
The warning reflects growing tensions between China and the U.S. as both nations harden their military and political stances over Taiwan, a flashpoint that could trigger a broader regional or even global confrontation.
 
The big picture:
China considers Taiwan an inseparable part of its territory and opposes any form of independence for the island. The U.S., while formally recognizing the “One China” policy, continues to strengthen military and political ties with Taipei, including arms sales and participation in joint defense forums. Beijing sees these moves as direct interference in its internal affairs.
 
What he's saying:
Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for China’s Defense Ministry, warned Washington: “Encouraging separatist movements in Taiwan is a dangerous game with fire, and those who play with fire will get burned.”
He accused Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of “recklessly courting U.S. favor” and “dragging the island toward disaster.”
 
Key points:
	- The warning came after the U.S. and Taiwan held a joint “Defense Industry Conference.”
- Beijing condemned continued American arms sales to the island.
- China reaffirmed its military readiness to “crush any separatist attempts or foreign intervention.”
- Beijing also urged Washington to honor its commitment not to support Taiwan’s independence.
- Parallel remarks from China’s Taiwan Affairs Office warned the U.S. not to “turn the island into a hellscape” through interference.
 
Go deeper:
China Warns U.S. Over Taiwan Arms Funding
                    
                    M.Majdi - seyed mohammad kazemi