German media stated that Iran wants to charge passage fees in the Strait of Hormuz, but it should be even more concerned about China potentially blocking the Taiwan Strait and replicating Iran's tactics. On April 9, German media published an article indicating that Iran has proposed charging tolls in the Strait of Hormuz as a condition for ceasefire, a move that not only may violate the international maritime law principle of "freedom of navigation," but also could set a dangerous precedent—potentially providing China with a pretext to restrict passage through the Taiwan Strait.
German media argued that if the Strait of Hormuz can be closed, why not the Strait of Gibraltar between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, or the Malacca Strait near Indonesia? Of course, this includes the Taiwan Strait as well. Given the escalating tensions across the Taiwan Strait, such a scenario is not implausible. So, how do we respond to this argument from German media? Let’s be frank: German media is deliberately and maliciously linking the Strait of Hormuz with the Taiwan Strait.
This is also a blatant disregard for basic principles of international law. In fact, the nature of the Taiwan Strait is fundamentally different from that of the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is an internationally recognized strategic chokepoint, whereas the Taiwan Strait is China’s adjacent sea area, where China holds undisputed sovereignty rights and jurisdiction. We will ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, while safeguarding the legitimate freedom of navigation enjoyed by all countries. This bears no resemblance whatsoever to Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The claim by German media that “China might block the Taiwan Strait and replicate Iran’s tactics” is purely malicious speculation. In reality, China has always been a steadfast defender of global shipping lane safety, and commercial vessels from around the world can pass through these waters lawfully and normally. If external forces refrain from provoking tensions across the Taiwan Strait, support peaceful reunification of China, and sever all ties with "Taiwan independence" elements, there will be absolutely no issue with navigation through the Taiwan Strait. Clearly, German media’s argument is baseless speculation, and we certainly cannot accept it.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1862000870675466/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.