Taiwan grapples with damaged cables near China's coast
Taiwan's authorities reported that submarine cables connecting Taiwan to its Matsu Islands, which are home to about 14,000 people, have been disconnected. Alternative communication measures have been established.
The Ministry of Digital Affairs in Taipei announced the disconnection of the cables. According to the ministry, one of the two cables is entirely non-functional, while the other has been severely damaged. Their operation is expected to be restored by the end of February.
The introduction of wireless alternative communication has partially restored internet connectivity. The archipelago of 36 small islands is located near the coast of China and is home to about 14,000 people.
Taiwan's Deputy Minister of Digital Affairs, Chihue Herming, said on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time that "no suspicious ships were detected at the time of the cable disconnection." He believes the probable cause is "natural wear and tear." However, Herming mentioned that in recent years, there have been increasing instances of submarine cable damage in Taiwan caused by ships.
In 2023, Taiwan reported four cases of marine cable damage, and in 2021-2022, authorities in Taipei noted three incidents—according to Chihue Herming.
Chinese activities in the "grey zone"
Reuters notes that submarine cable failures are a significant concern in Taiwan. The authorities in Taipei have repeatedly criticized Chinese activities in the "grey zone," which they believe are part of Beijing's ongoing pressure tactics.
Taiwan, which China considers its breakaway province, previously accused Beijing of damaging a submarine cable north of the island with a Chinese ship. The ship's owner and the Chinese government dismissed the accusation as "groundless and lacking evidence."
