An ex-US official talks of eliminating Taiwanese semiconductor factories

Former US National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien has revealed that Washington is determined to prevent China from seizing control of Taiwan's semiconductor industry, and that it would destroy the factories in the event of an "invasion" by Beijing's forces. Taiwan's TSMC is the world's dominant maker of advanced computer chips, supplying around 90% of the most cutting-edge semiconductors globally. President Joe Biden's administration has sought to block China's efforts to become a bigger player in the chip industry, restricting exports of chips and semiconductor-making equipment. Chinese officials have argued that the US "weaponization and politicization" of science and technology won't stop their country's progress. Taiwan has threatened to sabotage its chip plants to deter Beijing, suggesting that Beijing wouldn't be able to operate the factories anyway. Tensions in the region have escalated to the point that the Taiwanese Defense Ministry reportedly plans to focus its spending this year on preparing for a "total blockade".