The United States condemned China on Monday over a clash with the Philippines in the disputed South China Sea, highlighting escalating tensions in the region.
The incident occurred near Second Thomas Shoal in the contested Spratly Islands, with both nations blaming each other.
China claims extensive sovereignty over the South China Sea, including areas far from its mainland, which are also claimed by other nations like the Philippines.
US Ambassador to Manila, MaryKay Carlson, condemned China’s “aggressive, dangerous maneuvers” that caused "bodily injury" and damaged Philippine vessels. Despite the collision, neither nation reported injuries or significant damage.
This incident adds to a series of confrontations between China and the Philippines, with concerns growing among Western observers about potential escalation. The US has reiterated its commitment to its mutual defense treaty with the Philippines, stressing the importance of defending each other against external attacks.
US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller condemned China's actions, and Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell discussed the incident with Philippine officials.
China, however, blamed the Philippines for ignoring warnings and approaching Chinese vessels dangerously, while the Philippine military accused Chinese ships of “dangerous maneuvers.”
The collision comes shortly after China enacted a law allowing its coast guard to seize foreign ships and detain crews without trial.
The Philippines on the other hand, has accused China of illegal presence and actions within its exclusive economic zone which infringes on its sovereignty.
In 2016, an international tribunal ruled against China’s claims in the South China Sea, but Beijing has ignored the ruling, increasing its territorial assertions. The Spratly Islands, including Second Thomas Shoal, are contested by multiple countries due to their strategic and resource-rich significance.
The Philippine ship involved in the collision was on a mission to resupply soldiers stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded ship asserting Philippine claims.
China’s Coast Guard accused the Philippines of illegally delivering supplies and took measures to intercept and evict the Philippine vessel.
Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. condemned China’s actions, stating they threaten peace and stability in the region. He emphasized the Philippines’ commitment to protecting its territorial integrity and sovereignty, urging the international community to recognise China as the main obstacle to regional peace.
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