Will WWIII Start At Sea? Amid rising tensions between several countries and ongoing Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine wars, tensions between China and the United States’ ally the Philippines have started escalating after a Philippine government ship allegedly rammed into a Chinese vessel. The Chinese coast guard on Tuesday stated that the Philippine ship deliberately rammed into its vessel near Scarborough Shoal, which is a disputed area in the South China Sea. Notably, the area is claimed by both China and the Philippines. Issuing a statement, China’s coast guard stated that over 10 Philippine government ships entered the waters around Scarborough Shoal from different directions. China said its coast guard vessels tried to drive the ships away using water cannons.

Will The Incident Start War Between China And Philippines?

The Chinese Coast Guard termed actions of the Philippine ships provocative and inappropriate. Notably, this comes six days after Bejing announced a part of Scarborough Shoal its national nature reserve.

How Philippines Reacted To Chinese Announcement?

Manila on the other hand, rejected this declaration, stating that it would lodge a diplomatic protest against China’s announcement of formation of Bajo de Masinloc, a part of Scarborough Shoal, as its national nature reserve.

Is This The Disputes And Conflicts Between China And The Philippines?

HIGHLIGHTS

• Tensions between China and the Philippines escalated after a Philippine ship allegedly rammed into a Chinese coast guard vessel near disputed Scarborough Shoal.
• The Chinese coast guard accused Philippine ships of provocative actions.
• Manila rejected Beijing’s move to declare part of Scarborough Shoal as a national nature reserve.
• The South China Sea remains a hotspot due to its strategic importance, rich marine resources.

It is worth noting that it is not the first dispute that has escalated between both the Asian countries over this area of the South China Sea. China claims that the entire area of the South China Sea as its property, while other countries including the Philippines have also claimed a share in it.

Why Are Countries Ready To Fight For South China Sea?

The area is very crucial from a strategic point view and very suitable for fishing. China on Tuesday claimed that Philippines deliberately attacked its vessels to create a controversy.

The South China Sea

• The Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea continues to witness tension due to increased Chinese presence.
• Frequent clashes take place between China and neighbouring countries over ongoing border disputes.
• The South China Sea is a crucial trade route and as well as very rich in marine resources.
• South China Sea dispute has been a longstanding source of regional tension.
• Situation remains complex as countries are showing their interests in the strategically important area.