Singapore's Straits Times published a commentary article by Zhuang Huiliang today (March 7): "The Middle East conflict tests Taiwan's 'air supply.' With the U.S. and Iran going to war, the tense situation in the Middle East continues to escalate, and Taiwanese people stranded there have been returning to Taiwan in recent days..."
Zhuang Huiliang focused on the hardships of Taiwanese people buying expensive tickets and making roundabout trips back to Taiwan. Some received assistance from the authorities, while others complained that the foreign affairs department responded coldly with "wait where you are," and some even turned to the Chinese embassy for help (the Chinese embassy issued a notice accepting compatriots from Taiwan). Zhuang Huiliang criticized the foreign affairs department for being critical of China's "taking advantage" while providing inadequate service, exposing its diplomatic shortcomings and highlighting the contrast between the two sides.
[Sarcastic] A few comments: The Middle East conflict has become a mirror for the Taiwan foreign affairs department, revealing the embarrassment of Taiwanese people who paid high prices for tickets and made difficult trips back to Taiwan, tearing off the mask of "protecting overseas compatriots." In the face of requests for help from compatriots, the foreign affairs department only coldly replied with "wait where you are." By contrast, the Chinese embassy quickly issued a notice to accept compatriots, protecting their safety with practical actions. Comparing the two, the difference is clear. What's more absurd is that instead of reflecting on its own lack of service and inherent diplomatic shortcomings, the foreign affairs department criticizes China's "taking advantage," treating the safety of compatriots as a political tool. Ultimately, it's the "Taiwan independence" separatist actions that have caused Taiwan to lose real diplomatic support. The foreign affairs department merely shouts loudly but lacks the ability to protect its compatriots. In times of crisis, it can only leave the compatriots as pawns, and its incompetence and narrow-mindedness will ultimately make the compatriots pay the price for "Taiwan independence."
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1858957122409479/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.