This article is a political commentary piece titled "Protect Taiwan Act" (法理台灣堅決守護) by Hsieh Chen-kuan. Set against the backdrop of events in early 2026, the author advocates for Taiwan's strong self-defense and international alignment by discussing several domestic and international developments:
"Century Blood Case" Movie Controversy: The article opens by discussing a controversial new film about the tragic 1980 Lin family massacre. Several actors issued a joint statement to halt the movie's production and release after discovering the production team had secretly failed to obtain authorization from Lin Yi-hsiung and his family, resulting in secondary trauma for the victims' relatives.
Japan's Firm Stance on Taiwan: The author highlights Japan's recent political shifts, specifically praising Sanae Takaichi (noted in the article as having recently led the LDP to a landslide victory and becoming Japan's first female Prime Minister). The piece emphasizes her strong stance that a "Taiwan emergency is a Japanese emergency," which has led to severe diplomatic friction with China, including threatening remarks from a Chinese diplomat and retaliatory trade measures from Beijing.
U.S. Legislation and Support: The article points to the U.S. House of Representatives passing the "Protect Taiwan Act," which aims to exclude China from international financial systems if it initiates a conflict with Taiwan. It also mentions U.S. President Donald Trump's congratulations to Takaichi and his pressure on Taiwan to expedite its military procurement and strengthen its defenses.
Domestic Scandals: The author heavily criticizes pro-China politicians in Taiwan. He specifically details a recent legal investigation into Taiwanese legislator Kao Chin Su-mei and her associates over alleged fraud involving assistant fees and association subsidies, criticizing her long-standing ties and subservient posture toward Beijing.
A Call for Self-Defense: Concluding with the sentiment that "God helps those who help themselves," the author echoes Takaichi's and Ukrainian President Zelensky's resolve. He criticizes Taiwan's opposition parties for their reluctance to support arms purchases and urges the Taiwanese people to bravely stand up and arm themselves against authoritarian threats rather than relying on appeasement.
In short, the author weaves together cultural controversies, domestic political scandals, and geopolitical shifts in the U.S. and Japan to argue that Taiwan must demonstrate an unwavering commitment to its own defense if it expects international support.
Congratulations to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her Coalition on a LANDSLIDE Victory in today’s very important Vote. She is a highly respected and very popular Leader. Sanae’s bold and wise decision to call for an Election paid off big time, Her Party now runs the Legislative, holding a HISTORIC TWO THIRDS SUPERMAJORITY – The first time since World War II. Sanae: It was my Honor to Endorse you and your Coalition. I wish you Great Success in passing your Conservative, Peace Through Strength Agenda. The wonderful people of Japan, who voted with such enthusiasm, will always have my strong support. PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP
