Chinese ships attacked with water cannons, claims the Philippines. Beijing speaks of provocation

Tensions between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea have escalated again following an incident near Thitu Island over the weekend. The Philippines accused Chinese ships of aggressive maneuvers—using water cannons and ramming a Philippine vessel—claiming this was a “clear threat.”

The Chinese coast guard described the presence of Philippine ships at Sandy Cay as “illegal” and attributed the incident to their dangerous behavior. Manila, however, insists that the ships were protecting local fishermen and were attacked without reason.

The two countries repeatedly engage in disputes over areas within the Spratly Islands, which are of extraordinary strategic and economic importance. Confrontations in this area are increasing, particularly in connection with Scarborough Shoal.

Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea, which also exacerbates tensions with other countries in the region, such as Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

(reuters, lup)