The Chinese government has so far adhered to its commitment to peaceful reunification with Taiwan. But a fundamental change in China’s stance, forced by a dangerously cavalier U.S. attitude, will make it hard to avoid a non-peaceful solution.

The collapse of Afghanistan’s government has caused a shift in the discourse about other U.S. defense commitments around the world. China has engaged in public saber-rattling when it comes to Taiwan, yet the situation is day and night in comparison.

Reassuring verbal messages from high levels in the United States government regarding China are nice to hear but are little more than public relations. American credibility is so poor that few believe such statements are sincere. Actions speak louder than words, and they tell a different story.

For a decade, the focus of the United States has shown a high degree of continuity, starting with George W. Bush and followed by Barack Obama, Donald Trump and now Joe Biden. But America is now paying greater attention to detail and adding new features to its geostrategic approach.

Kurt Campbell, coordinator for the Indo-Pacific region on the U.S. National Security Council, added some clarity recently on United States policy regarding the island. The Biden administration’s policy review appears to be finished, and it’s starting to take action.

The island of Taiwan has been locked in one of China’s most famous conflicts for decades. Now, other nations are taking advantage of the stand-off to bolster their security concerns in regards to Chinese expansion.

The visit by military aircraft is subject to interpretation. But using this kind of theater to test China’s patience and undercut the dignity of the Chinese government will certainly lead the latter to adjust and change its policy toward the island.

When it comes to Taiwan and the South China Sea, it’s imperative that trust and restraint be restored between China and the United States. Failure to do so can only increase the risk of conflict in the region. There are rational, common-sense steps that can be taken in this direction.

The United States is edging ever closer to China’s red lines as it moves to enhance relations with the island. This has triggered policy discussions in the U.S. about whether to abandon strategic ambiguity and make it clear that the United States will take military action to defend Taiwan against Beijing.

The long-standing impasse between Taiwan and China has involved the U.S. since it’s beginnings after the second World War. Biden’s administration has started with strong affirmations of its commitment to Taiwan, but the tense situation may soon be measured in each player’s appetite for direct confrontation.