As tensions escalate in the South China Sea, China’s coast guard has been increasingly aggressive toward the Philippines, a treaty ally of the United States. Recent confrontations involving collisions, water cannons, lasers, knives, and other tools have raised fears of a superpower showdown in the region. China’s target has been the Sabina Shoal, a resource-rich atoll close to the Philippine mainland. China’s tactics, including displacing the Philippine coast guard ship Teresa Magbanua, have caused damage to Philippine boats and heightened tensions in the disputed waters.
The Philippines aims to control Sabina Shoal due to its proximity to oil deposits and strategic trade routes. China, which claims almost all of the South China Sea, asserts that its tactics are necessary to defend its sovereignty. Despite international tensions, both countries have engaged in dialogue to de-escalate conflicts. However, the Philippines’ president, Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., has taken a more assertive approach against China than his predecessor, inviting journalists to observe resupply missions and strengthening ties with the United States.
As China increases its presence in the South China Sea with a larger navy fleet, confrontations with the Philippines have become more frequent. China’s use of gray zone tactics, such as water cannons and blockades, is meant to intimidate the Philippines without resorting to lethal force. Chinese and U.S. military officials have been in communication to reduce the risk of misperception or miscalculation, but tensions remain high in the region. With both sides standing firm in their positions, the future of the South China Sea remains uncertain.
Source
Photo credit www.nytimes.com