Taiwan’s President: Israel’s Defense Strategy a Model for Standing Up to Authoritarianism

TAIPEI — Taiwan President Lai Ching-te drew a powerful parallel between Israel’s defense posture and Taiwan’s own struggle for sovereignty, urging his nation to “channel the spirit of David against Goliath” in standing up to authoritarian pressure from China.

Speaking Monday evening at a dinner hosted by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) in Taipei — the organization’s first-ever delegation visit to Taiwan — Lai praised Israel’s resilience and commitment to security, calling it “a valuable model” for Taiwan’s self-defense strategy.

“Appeasement has never stopped authoritarian regimes,” Lai said. “Peace through strength is the path shared by Taiwan, the United States, and Israel.” He thanked AIPAC for underscoring the importance of peace in the Taiwan Strait and reaffirmed Taiwan’s shared values with both nations: freedom, human rights, and the rule of law.

The president also announced plans to boost Taiwan’s defense spending to 3.32% of GDP next year, with a goal of 5% by 2030. He outlined progress on the “T-Dome,” a multilayered missile defense system inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome and U.S. missile defense initiatives.

Lai further highlighted Taiwan’s role as a global semiconductor hub and urged deeper technological and defense collaboration with the U.S. and Israel, emphasizing joint innovation in cybersecurity and AI.

Referring to Israel’s history, Lai said Taiwan often looks to the Jewish people’s resilience for inspiration: “Despite persecution, the Jewish people have persevered with faith and determination — just as Taiwan continues to stand firm against threats to its sovereignty.”

The AIPAC event, attended by over 200 American delegates, marked a significant moment in Taiwan–Israel–U.S. relations, with Lai expressing optimism that trilateral cooperation can “help secure peace, stability, and prosperity across the region.”