Mainland vows safety for Taiwan compatriots amid Middle East tensions, criticizes DPP’s political manipulation

A Chinese mainland spokesperson stated on Wednesday that the mainland will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Taiwan compatriots amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, while criticizing Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party authorities for prioritizing political schemes over the lives and safety of the people.

Commenting on the recent military operations by the United States and Israel against Iran, Zhang Han, spokeswoman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said at a regular press conference that the mainland will, as always, take all necessary steps to safeguard the safety of Chinese citizens, including Taiwan compatriots in the region.

Taiwan compatriots in need of assistance may contact Chinese embassies or consulates in their area at any time, or call the 12308 consular protection hotline, Zhang added.

"Taiwan compatriots are Chinese citizens and our own flesh and blood," she said. "No matter where they are or what difficulties they encounter, the great motherland will always be a strong backing for them."

Following the US-Israeli military operations against Iran, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant Chinese embassies and consulates have issued notices urging Chinese citizens, including Taiwan compatriots, to evacuate as soon as possible. According to the notices, Taiwan compatriots who require assistance with evacuation may register for support. However, the DPP authorities claimed that seeking evacuation assistance from the mainland would be "risky" for Taiwan people.

Zhang condemned the DPP authorities for continuing to engage in political manipulation at this critical moment concerning the safety and well-being of Taiwan compatriots, saying their actions demonstrate a lack of conscience and humanity.

"What they fear most is seeing people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait as one family, and that true kinship is revealed in times of adversity," she said.

Zhang said the DPP authorities have fully exposed their "coldness and selfishness" by placing political schemes above the lives and safety of the people, which will face firm opposition from Taiwan compatriots.

In response to speculation on the island about possible mainland action toward Taiwan under the current circumstances, Zhang reiterated that Taiwan is part of China and that the Taiwan question remains China's internal affair. She stressed that when and how the question is resolved is entirely up to the Chinese people, saying that it is a just cause aimed at safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity that brooks no external interference.

"If 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces dare to take reckless risks and cross the red line, we will take resolute measures and deliver a firm counterstrike," Zhang said.