# cross‑Strait tensions

Beijing Warns of 'Annihilation' After Reports Taiwan Might Forward-Deploy HIMARS and Consider Pre‑Emptive Strikes

China’s defence ministry rejected Taiwanese proposals to forward‑deploy HIMARS rocket systems and entertain pre‑emptive strikes, warning any attempt to provoke conflict would be met with annihilation. The exchange deepens cross‑Strait tensions, highlighting the risks of forward deployments, tight decision timelines, and potential miscalculation with the United States watching closely.