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Beijing’s Show of Force: China Launches Major Drills Around Taiwan

  A ship fires a weapon during drills east of Taiwan in this screenshot from a video released by the Eastern Theater Command of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Dec. 29, 2025. China has initiated large‑scale military exercises around Taiwan, framing the operation as a direct warning to what it calls separatist forces and foreign supporters. The drills, conducted by the Eastern Theatre Command, involve naval vessels, fighter jets, and missile units operating across multiple zones encircling the island. According to Chinese military statements, the exercises are designed to test joint combat readiness and simulate scenarios such as blockades and precision strikes. The move follows heightened tensions over international engagement with Taiwan, including recent arms sales and diplomatic exchanges that Beijing views as challenges to its sovereignty claims. Taiwan’s defense ministry denounced the drills as coercive and destabilizing, placing its military on alert and trac...

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Maldives Bans Israelis from Entering Country Over War in Gaza

 

The Maldives government has taken a significant step by announcing a ban on Israeli citizens from entering the Indian Ocean archipelago. This decision comes amid rising public anger in the predominantly Muslim nation over the ongoing war in Gaza. Here are the key details:

  1. Ban Details:

    • The Cabinet of the Maldives decided to change laws to prevent Israeli passport holders from entering the country.
    • A subcommittee will be established to oversee the ban implementation.
    • President Mohamed Muizu will appoint a special envoy to assess Palestinian needs and launch a fundraising campaign.
  2. Israel’s Response:

    • Israel’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Oren Marmorstein, recommended that Israelis avoid any travel to the Maldives, including those with foreign passports.
    • Israelis currently in the Maldives are advised to consider leaving.
  3. Tourism Impact:

    • Nearly 11,000 Israelis visited the Maldives last year, accounting for 0.6% of total tourist arrivals.

The ban reflects the Maldives’ stance on the conflict in Gaza and underscores the nation’s solidarity with the Palestinian cause. As tensions persist, this move adds to the geopolitical dynamics in the region.


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