The U.S. State Department recently removed a phrase from its website stating its opposition to Taiwan's independence, sparking a reaction from Chinese officials. The deletion, noticed last week, removes the explicit statement "we do not support Taiwan independence" from the fact sheet detailing U.S.-Taiwan relations. While the State Department maintains that its stance on Taiwanese independence remains unchanged, China has urged the U.S. to rectify what it perceives as a "wrongdoing" and a signal to pro-independence groups in Taiwan.

A State Department spokesperson reiterated the U.S. commitment to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, emphasizing its opposition to unilateral actions by either side and its support for peaceful dialogue. The U.S. has historically walked a diplomatic tightrope regarding Taiwan, adhering to the "One China" policy. This policy recognizes Beijing as the sole government of China while acknowledging, but not endorsing, Beijing's claim over Taiwan. Consequently, the U.S. maintains no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan and lacks an embassy on the island.

Despite this diplomatic stance, the U.S. has consistently provided financial support for Taiwan's defense and collaborated with other Western nations to deter a potential takeover by mainland China. Chinese President Xi Jinping's repeated openness to using military force to achieve unification with Taiwan underscores the tension in the region. Taiwan, with its democratically elected government, asserts its independence. This self-governance dates back to 1949 when pro-democracy forces retreated to the island after losing a civil war to the Chinese Communist Party.

The U.S. has recently demonstrated its commitment to Taiwan through symbolic gestures, such as the recent passage of two U.S. Navy vessels and a Canadian vessel through the Taiwan Strait. These actions, while drawing criticism from Beijing, underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding Taiwan's status.