US navy official says arms sales to Taiwan on ‘pause’ due to Iran war

WASHINGTON, May 22 (YPA) – Acting US Navy Secretary Hung Cao said Thursday the US has paused a NT$441.4 billion (US$14 billion) arms sale to Taiwan due to the Trump administration’s ongoing military engagement with Iran.

Speaking during a US Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee hearing, Cao noted that the move aims to ensure sufficient munitions are available to meet US operational needs. He emphasized the US still has adequate stocks of weapons to cope with the conflict in Iran.

Cao said the US government has conducted a review of its weapons stockpiles and adjusted deployments. He highlighted that foreign military sales will resume when the administration deems it appropriate.

Responding to questions about the suspension, Cao said right now we’re doing a pause in order to make sure we have the munitions we need for Epic Fury — which we have plenty.

“We’re just making sure we have everything, but then the foreign military sales will continue when the administration deems necessary,” he added.

For his part, US President Donald Trump did not give a clear commitment to proceed with the deal, raising concerns over the level of American support for Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory and has not ruled out using force to bring under its control.

Ahead of his recent official visit to China, Trump said he would discuss the arms deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping, a move seen as a departure from the traditional US stance of avoiding consultation with Beijing on Taiwan-related arms sales.

Trump later clarified that he had made no commitments to Xi regarding Taiwan, adding that he would make a final decision on the arms sales soon.

@E.Y.M