The Nuclear Precipice: U.S.-China Tensions Over Taiwan

A potential conflict between the U.S. and China over Taiwan risks nuclear escalation, with both nations poised for strategic operations against each other's military infrastructures. The IISS highlights a burgeoning arms race in Asia, stressing the need for strategic stability as tensions rise during the Shangri-La Dialogue.


Devdiscourse News Desk | * Regional Assessment Says Asia At Centre Of Growing Nuclear Rivalries * Document Released Ahead Of Weekend Defence Meeting* U.S. And China Lack "Guard Rails" In Conflict Scenarios (Adds Chinese ​Response In Paragraphs 5-6)By Greg Torode And Jun Yuan Yong Singapore | Updated: 28-05-2026 14:51 IST | Created: 28-05-2026 14:51 IST
The Nuclear Precipice: U.S.-China Tensions Over Taiwan
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Experts warn of a potential nuclear escalation amid rising tensions between the U.S. and China concerning Taiwan. A key defence research report suggests that both countries are poised for expansive military operations targeting each other's command and communications systems.

With the Asia-Pacific becoming a focal point in the global nuclear arms race, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) underscores the risks of strategic instability as regional states expand their arsenals. The upcoming Shangri-La Dialogue is expected to tackle these pressing concerns.

Meanwhile, China maintains its claim over Taiwan as an internal matter, urging the U.S. to exercise caution. However, the lack of established communication channels raises the specter of miscalculation in the event of conflict, potentially elevating the risk of nuclear confrontation.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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