Threat to Taiwan
The week's news at a glance.
Beijing
The Chinese government this week authorized the use of force to prevent any area from seceding, a move seen as a warning to Taiwan. The new law, which is virtually certain to be passed, says that China can deploy the military if the government believes that Taiwan is moving toward independence—even if Taiwan has taken no formal legal action. While China wants to “achieve reunification” with the breakaway island by peaceful means, the law says, it can resort to “nonpeaceful means” if necessary. Taiwan, which has governed itself since 1949, said the law “exposes China’s plot to impose armed force to swallow up Taiwan.”
Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
Critics’ choice: Restaurants worthy of their buzz
feature A fun bistro, a reservation worth the wait, and a modern twist on Mexican dishes
By The Week US Published
-
Film reviews: Snow White, Death of a Unicorn, and The Alto Knights
Feature A makeover for Disney’s first animated feature, greedy humans earn nature’s wrath, and a feud between crime bosses rattles the mob
By The Week US Published
-
Bombs or talks: What’s next in the US-Iran showdown?
Talking Points US gives Tehran a two-month deadline to deal
By Joel Mathis, The Week US Published