The Taiwan Strait is 100 miles wide. That's a LONG way to row...
Seriously, they may not have the naval force, but they almost have to take the opportunity.
And destroy a large chunk of the PLA's ability to project power outside of China to no gain.
Incidentally, history shows that LOSING a war is a great way to trigger a military coup.
The Chinese elites are extremely risk-averse; they'd need HUGE assurances.
A spark in any of a dozen hot spots could result in a global immolation. Heck, half of FR is ready to nuke five or six nations into oblivion because they are of a different religion!
Please note that the half in question doesn't have their finger on the button.
I rode out a typhoon there in 1959 and I couldn't see land on either side even when we went up on the high waves.
Didn't get a chance to tell you during compliment weekend, but I enjoy reading your replies.