The U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee has the authority to declare war if Beijing attacks Taiwan without provocation, according to Michael McCaul, the committee chairman.

What Happened: McCaul emphasized that deterrence is the most effective strategy to prevent such an outcome, South China Morning Post reported on Monday.

He stated, "If the island in an unprovoked manner was invaded, then it would be to the American people and the United States Congress, and my committee that has the power to declare war, how to deal with that."

McCaul is part of a bipartisan group of six lawmakers visiting Taiwan despite warnings from Beijing. This delegation is the first from the U.S. Congress to visit since the May 20 inauguration of Taiwanese leader Lai Ching-te.

McCaul highlighted that the U.S. Congress and government are committed to ensuring Taiwan has the necessary weapons for deterrence. He noted that under the Taiwan Relations Act, the U.S. is obliged to provide defense equipment and training to Taiwan.

McCaul warned that Chinese President Xi Jinping has "bold and aggressive ambitions" and stressed the importance of ensuring that "the risks outweigh the rewards" for him. He added that recent military drills by the People's Liberation Army provided valuable insights into potential responses by Taiwan and possibly the U.S.

See Also: Kim Jong Un’s North Korea Informs Japan About Launch Of ‘Satellite Rocket’, Believed To Be Spy Mission

Regarding potential changes in relations following the American presidential election in November, McCaul assured that U.S. support for Taiwan would remain steadfast regardless of the outcome.

Why It Matters: The geopolitical tension between the US, China, and Taiwan has been escalating. Recently, China conducted “strong punishment” drills near Taiwan following the inauguration of Taiwanese President Lai on May 20. These drills were a direct warning against interference by external forces.

In response, the U.S. has been working to expedite the delivery of military equipment to Taiwan. On May 27, a senior US lawmaker confirmed that Taiwan’s ordered weapons are on their way, emphasizing the urgency given the rising military tensions.

Additionally, Beijing has urged the US to refrain from “dangerous and destabilizing actions” amid ongoing disputes in the South China Sea. This highlights the broader context of US-China relations and the potential for conflict extending beyond Taiwan.

Read Next: Alibaba To Raise $4.5B Through Convertible Bonds For Share Buybacks Amid Fierce Competition, Slow Recovery

Photo by Andy.LIU Shutterstock

This story was generated using Benzinga Neuro and edited by Pooja Rajkumari