2 Giants, 20 Scientists: Mysterious Deaths, Disappearances Rattle US, China

The article notes that Iranian nuclear experts have, in the past, been targeted by Israel, allegedly as part of efforts to slow Iran's nuclear ambitions.

Across the Pacific, reports from Chinese and overseas media point to at least nine deaths of scientists working in similarly sensitive sectors, including fields such as artificial intelligence, hypersonic weapons, nuclear research, and space defence. Most cases have been attributed to accidents, sudden illnesses, or remain unexplained. The scientists were aged between 26 and 68. One of the cases highlighted in the coverage is Feng Yanghe, noted above as a key figure in Taiwan-scenario simulations.

In Washington, at least 11 incidents involving scientists in areas such as nuclear technology, space research and advanced weapons are under scrutiny. The issue has reached political circles, with Republican Representative Eric Burlison suggesting a possible 'foreign operation'. US President Donald Trump described the situation as 'pretty serious stuff', while expressing hope that it may be coincidental. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched an investigation.

Feng Yanghe, a 38-year-old professor at the National University of Defence Technology, died in a car crash in Beijing in July 2023. He had been working on simulation models related to potential Taiwan scenarios and was returning from a meeting at around 2:35 am when the accident occurred. A government-affiliated science platform described him as having been 'sacrificed while performing official duties' and he was buried at Babaoshan cemetery, a site typically reserved for state-recognised figures. A researcher tracking Chinese military developments told Newsweek that aspects of the case appeared unusual, including the timing of the crash and the official description of his death.