US pauses $14bn Taiwan arms deal over Iran war strain

The United States has temporarily paused a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan. The decision was confirmed by a senior

The United States has temporarily paused a $14 billion arms sale to Taiwan. The decision was confirmed by a senior US defence official during a congressional hearing. The move has triggered concern among lawmakers and regional security analysts.

Acting US Navy Secretary Hung Cao told the Senate Armed Services Committee that the pause is intended to protect US ammunition stockpiles. He said the military is prioritising operational readiness due to ongoing defence commitments linked to tensions involving Iran.

He clarified that the arms deal has not been cancelled. It has only been delayed. The final decision on whether to proceed will be taken by senior defence and foreign policy officials in Washington. The process will continue once military supply conditions are reviewed.

The proposed package would be the largest US weapons sale ever offered to Taiwan. It was approved earlier by the US Congress. However, it still requires final approval from President Donald Trump before it can move forward.

Officials said the pause is linked to concerns over limited munitions supply. The US military is reportedly managing stockpiles carefully due to its current operational demands in the Middle East. These demands have increased pressure on defence logistics and planning.

The issue has also drawn attention because of its political sensitivity. China strongly opposes US arms sales to Taiwan. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and regularly criticises Washington for military cooperation with Taipei.

The proposed deal has already been a subject of diplomatic discussion between the United States and China. It was reportedly raised during recent high-level contacts between the two countries. Any delay is expected to be closely monitored by Beijing.

Despite the pause, Taiwan has said it will continue to seek defence equipment from international partners. Taiwanese officials maintain that strengthening defence capability remains a priority given regional security challenges.

Premier Cho Jung-tai said Taiwan will continue its defence procurement plans. He stressed that the island will maintain efforts to improve military readiness and resilience.

Security analysts have warned that the delay could create uncertainty in Taiwan. Some argue it may raise questions about the reliability of US military support in the long term. Others say it could affect Taiwan’s defence planning and procurement timelines.

US officials, however, insist the pause is temporary. They say it is driven by logistical needs rather than a shift in policy. They also maintain that support for Taiwan remains unchanged under existing US commitments.

The US maintains unofficial relations with Taiwan and is bound by the Taiwan Relations Act, which requires it to assist the island in self-defence. At the same time, Washington continues to balance its broader military commitments across multiple regions.