Overview

• China's government claims its coast guard patrols around Kinmen islands are 'beyond reproach', dismissing Taiwan's complaints of causing panic.
• Taiwan's defense minister states mainland Chinese coastguard ships are not seen as a threat as long as they avoid land forces.
• Five Chinese coast guard ships entered prohibited waters around Kinmen, with Beijing beginning regular patrols this month.
• Mainland China sends coastguard ships from contested Diaoyu Islands to patrol near Kinmen, signaling increased pressure on Taipei.
• China's coast guard activities near Kinmen are seen as a 'gray zone' tactic, risking confrontations without triggering war.