Pentagon Warns of China's Mounting Threat and Military Aggression

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth emphasized on Tuesday that China represents an increasingly aggressive threat to the United States. Despite rapid advancements in its military forces and provocative moves near Taiwan, countering China remains the Pentagon's foremost regional concern, according to a report by Taipei Times.

Hegseth, conveying his points during a House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defence hearing, stressed that China's strategic goal is to prepare for conflict in the Indo-Pacific, aiming for regional and global dominance. He argued that if China succeeds, it could hinder US industrial resurgence and cripple the economy.

As per the Taipei Times report, Hegseth advocated for the revitalization of the US defense industrial base under former President Donald Trump's "peace through strength" strategy. In parallel, Chairman General Dan Caine noted an increase in size, frequency, and complexity of Chinese military operations, suggesting these actions are rehearsals for potential conflict.

The concerns echoed within top US military ranks with allies like Admiral Samuel Paparo. Minister of National Defence Wellington Koo shared similar warnings, focusing on the importance of integrated deterrence in maintaining Indo-Pacific stability.

(With inputs from agencies.)