Bipartisan US Senators Introduce Legislation to Protect Undersea Cables Around Taiwan

In light of increasing threats from China's grey zone tactics, a coalition of US senators has put forward legislation aimed at reinforcing the security of crucial undersea communication cables that encircle Taiwan. Spearheaded by Republican Senator John Curtis in conjunction with Democratic Senator Jacky Rosen, the Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act is designed to protect this essential infrastructure from interference by the People's Republic of China (PRC).

The proposed act outlines a collaborative approach involving multiple government agencies, primarily led by the U.S. Department of State, along with the Departments of Defense, Homeland Security, and the US Coast Guard. Key components of the legislation include establishing real-time monitoring systems, developing protocols for rapid responses to any sabotage attempts, enhancing maritime surveillance, and fostering international cooperation to deter potential acts of undersea disruption.

In their advocacy, the senators referenced intelligence and recent incidents indicating that Beijing's military strategy may involve targeting these undersea cables to undermine communications in times of conflict. Reports indicate that since February 2023, there have been at least 11 disruptions, most of which are suspected to have been caused by vessels intentionally interfering with the cables, highlighting a troubling trend that US lawmakers believe cannot be overlooked. Senator Curtis emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the US must act decisively to counter China's escalating pressure on Taiwan.

In addition to this legislation, Senators Curtis and Chris Van Hollen have reintroduced the Taiwan International Solidarity Act aimed at countering China's efforts to diplomatically isolate Taiwan. This bill clarifies that UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 does not inhibit US support for Taiwan's involvement in international organizations. Curtis pointed out that China has often misused this resolution to restrict Taiwan's presence on global platforms, asserting the need for the United Nations to avoid facilitating such misinterpretations. Meanwhile, the House has already passed a version of this bill, while Senate actions are still forthcoming.

These recent legislative efforts represent a strong bipartisan commitment to address Beijing's hybrid warfare tactics and its overarching campaign to threaten regional stability.