US Temporarily Halts $14 Billion Arms Sale to Taiwan

Kathmandu. America has temporarily stopped the sale of arms worth 14 billion US dollars to Taiwan. According to American officials, this decision has been taken to secure the arms stockpile necessary for the war and military campaign with Iran.

Acting US Navy Secretary Hunga Kao confirmed this temporary halt in a US congressional hearing. According to him, the current priority is to secure the ammunition necessary for military operations related to Iran.

‘We are currently pausing for some time to ensure that we have the weapons needed for Epic Fury – which we have in abundance,’ he said.

However, he also clarified that he has not had any direct discussion with Taiwan about this. The office of the President of Taiwan has stated that it has not received any official information about this. The government led by Lai Ching-te has been saying that the arms cooperation with America is important for maintaining regional security.

China claims Taiwan as its territory and has also indicated that it will use force if necessary. America's decision to sell arms is always considered politically very sensitive.

The arms deal between America and Taiwan has long been a subject of strong opposition from China. Beijing had reacted strongly even before when arms were sold in large quantities.

US President Donald Trump has indicated that these arms sales can be used as an important subject of bargaining in talks with China.

He also said that detailed discussions were held on the Taiwan issue after meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping recently. However, according to the 1982 US policy, America had committed not to consult with China on arms sales related to Taiwan, which has now become a subject of controversy.