The coast guard teams of China and the Philippines faced off near the reef between the disputed areas known as the Second Thomas Shoal.
Chinese coast guard boats did not allow one of the two boats to dock, carrying food, water and fuel to the Philippines’ reef soldiers, and used pressurized water.
The Chinese ship’s actions “disregarded the safety of those on board,” the Philippine Armed Forces said in a statement.
The statement, which is argued that China violated international law with this action, did not include details about whether there were any injuries in the incident.
The statement described China’s actions as “exaggerated and disturbing” and called for “responsible” actions in the region.
Statement of support from the USA to the Philippines
The US State Department made a statement of support to the Philippines.
China’s actions are a “direct threat” to regional peace and stability, the statement said. statements were included.
Australia and Japan also expressed support for the Philippines.
South China Sea dispute
The South China Sea has been the subject of sovereignty disputes since riparian countries gained their independence after the Second World War.
China claims sovereignty over 80 percent of the South China Sea, with the map it first published in 1947. Coastal neighboring countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei, and Malaysia also claim the region.
The USA, as well as the countries in the region, oppose China’s construction of military bases on the disputed islands in the region and keeping civilian fleets for a long time.
It is observed that the USA has recently increased its military patrol and navigation activities, which it calls “Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONP),” against the increasing presence of China.