Washington, May 21 (V7N)- The United States has temporarily suspended nearly $14 billion worth of arms sales to Taiwan, citing the ongoing military situation involving Iran, according to US officials.
Acting US Navy Secretary Hang Kao said during a Senate defense hearing on Thursday (May 21) that the decision was taken to prioritize US military stockpiles amid heightened operational requirements linked to Iran. The report was cited by Al Jazeera.
He stated that the US is currently focused on maintaining sufficient ammunition for what he referred to as “Operation Epic Fury” against Iran. “At this time, we are temporarily suspending the deal. We want to ensure US forces have adequate supplies,” he said, adding that the suspension would remain in place until further review by senior defense authorities.
According to him, the final decision on resuming foreign military sales will be made by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, depending on evolving security conditions.
US President Donald Trump also confirmed that he recently discussed the Taiwan arms package with Chinese President Xi Jinping, indicating that the deal could either be approved or withheld depending on broader diplomatic considerations. He also suggested the arms package could be used as leverage in ongoing negotiations with China.
The US Congress had approved the package in January, but presidential authorization is required for implementation. If finalized, it would be the largest US arms sale to Taiwan in history.
Taiwanese Prime Minister Cho Chung-tae has reiterated that Taipei will continue its defense procurement plans despite the delay.
Analysts warn that the suspension may raise fresh concerns in Taiwan over long-term US security commitments, while China continues to oppose any US military support to the island, which it considers part of its territory.
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