Taiwan is expressing significant concern regarding the ongoing conflict in Iran, which is reportedly draining the United States' supply of long-range cruise missiles that would be essential in a situation where Taiwan faces a Chinese invasion. It is estimated that the US military has already fired hundreds of its Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (JASSMs) and Tomahawk missiles during recent weeks of conflict in the Middle East. These missiles are viewed as critical in any potential military engagement involving Taiwan, as they can be launched from outside the reach of enemy air defenses, thereby reducing the risk to attacking aircraft or naval vessels.

A high-ranking Taiwanese defense official has voiced concerns about the US military potentially expending too much ammunition, which is presumed to be necessary for the defense of Taiwan. This official emphasized that the depletion of missile stocks could undermine the deterrent capabilities that are vital for the island's security against Chinese aggression. The ongoing situation has raised questions about whether the US is strategically prepared to sustain its support for Taiwan while simultaneously engaging in overseas military conflicts.

The broader implications of this situation suggest that Taiwan's security, which is heavily reliant on US military support, could be at risk if the US fails to maintain adequate missile stockpiles. The war in Iran and its ramifications on military readiness may necessitate a reevaluation of defense strategies, both in Taiwan and the United States, especially in the context of rising tensions in the Pacific region. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, Taiwan’s fears highlight the intricate balance of military resources between managing conflicts in different parts of the world.