Collision in the South China Sea Escalates Tensions Between China and Philippines

China and the Philippines have accused each other of causing a ship collision in the disputed waters of the South China Sea. The incident comes amid rising tensions, with both countries vying for control over the resource-rich area. The United States has condemned China's actions and reaffirmed its commitment to defend the Philippines.

China and the Philippines exchanged accusations of blame after a collision between their ships in the contentious South China Sea. According to a statement by Chinese coast guard spokesperson Liu Dejun, a Philippine ship manipulated and intentionally struck a Chinese vessel in what he described as a 'dangerous and unprofessional' manner.

Philippine authorities countered by stating that their coast guard ship, the BRP Teresa Magbanua, was repeatedly hit by the Chinese vessel without any provocation. This clash marks the second such confrontation near Sabina Shoal within days, an area within the Philippines' internationally recognized exclusive economic zone.

The United States condemned China's actions, labeling them as 'multiple dangerous violations of international law,' and assured its support to the Philippines. With the South China Sea being a critical maritime route for international trade, the ongoing territorial disputes and aggressive maneuvers could potentially draw in the United States, bound by treaty obligations to defend the Philippines.

(With inputs from agencies.)