US would defend Taiwan “militarily” if China attacks, says Biden

President Joe Biden said Monday the US would be willing to use force and intervene “militarily” to defend Taiwan if China attacks—a comment soon glossed over by the White House, saying it does not impact the US policy.

Washington is required by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself. However, it has long followed a policy of “strategic ambiguity” whenever questioned if the US would help the island in case of a Chinese attack.

During a joint conference with the Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, right before the Quad Summit, a reporter asked if the US would go further to help Taiwan, and Biden replied, "Yes.”

“That's the commitment we made," Biden added further.

A White House official later said there was no change in policy towards Taiwan.

Interestingly, it is the second time in months that Biden has committed to military intervention if China attacks Taiwan—a self-governing island off its coast.

The geopolitics of Taiwan
A confrontation between China and the US can have a global impact and may cause a war around the world. 

It is worth noting that China has increased its military activity in the region.

The “One China” Policy
Biden further mentioned the US agrees with the “One China” policy but taking Taiwan by force is not appropriate. Under the policy the US acknowledges that Taiwan is a part of China but has never officially accepted China’s claim over the island country.