Taiwan – A Strategic Trigger Point in the South China Sea: Impacts on Western Pacific Security

Abstract

South China Sea (SCS) stands as a critical geopolitical hotspot, fraught with historical  territorial disputes and escalating tensions among powerful nations, posing a significant threat  to regional stability. Geo-political and geo-strategic environment of SCS is shaped by Taiwan  conflict. Strategic community of US and China would resort to every possible option to stay away  from war. However, as military theorists said the best way to avoid the war is to demonstrate  war. Along with this intent both China & US continuously enlarging military capabilities in SCS 
convincing each other not to go for the option of military conflict. This study aims to investigate  genesis of Taiwan conflict, disputing claims of various actors, and drivers of US involvement. The  significance of this research lies in its analysis to holistically cover the implications for Western  Pacific strategic environment. Theoretical framework entails theory of strategic triangle  whereas the methodology is qualitative in nature. Ultimately, research underscores imperative  of proactive diplomacy and crisis management strategies to mitigate risks of conflict. It 
concludes by advocating for preservation of international norms and exploration of alternative  security frameworks to uphold peace and stability in South China Sea.