The US State Department has urged China to cease military pressure and engage in dialogue with Taiwan, stating that recent Chinese war games around the island "unnecessarily" raised tensions. Beijing conducted two days of large-scale drills, simulating a blockade and involving missile launches and fighter jets, which Taipei condemned as "highly provocative." The US reiterated its commitment to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and opposition to unilateral changes to the status quo. Several international bodies also expressed concern over the drills.