A spokesman for China’s Ministry of National Defense on Wednesday denounced Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities for bowing to U.S. demands, warning that such actions undermine the island's future and harm the well-being of its people.
The spokesman, Zhang Xiaogang, responded at a press conference to statements from Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te that Taiwan would not retaliate with tariffs against the U.S. but would instead "bear hardships as nourishment" while stepping up large-scale purchases of agricultural, industrial and energy products, as well as weapons from the U.S.
"The Lai Ching-te authorities bow and scrape to 'foreign masters', regardless of the consequences for Taiwan's industries and people. It can be said that the Taiwan authorities have given in to every demand of the United States. Such actions will only harm Taiwan's future and the livelihoods of its people. Seeking independence by soliciting U.S. support is doomed to failure, and resorting to force to resist reunification leads nowhere," he said.
Chinese defense spokesman slams DPP for bowing to U.S. demands, harming livelihoods in Taiwan
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned on Sunday that Tehran would view the United States and Israel's military bases and facilities in the Middle East as "legitimate targets" should Washington take military action against Iran.
At a parliamentary session convened to review an emergency proposal on assembly regulations, Qalibaf emphasized that, at this highly sensitive juncture, Iran must accurately and thoroughly identify the schemes of its adversaries.
Qalibaf said that Iran is currently confronting Israel and the United States simultaneously on four fronts: economic, cognitive, military, and counterterrorism. Of them, the economic warfare and the cognitive and psychological warfare began many years ago and have persisted to this day, growing increasingly complex and intense in recent years.
The remarks came as U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly "seriously considering authorizing a strike" against Iran, taking advantage of its nationwide unrest.
Protests have erupted in several Iranian cities since late December over the sharp fall of the rial and long-standing economic hardship. Iranian authorities have acknowledged the demonstrations and voiced willingness to address economic grievances, while warning against violence and vandalism.
Amid the ongoing protests, deadly clashes have been reported lately between police and what the government described as "rioters." However, no official death toll has been released.
Also on Sunday, Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will address the country's economic situation and political environment in a televised interview later that day.
Iran swears to counterattack if attacked
