Rising Tensions in the South China Sea: Collision and Diplomatic Fallout

China and the Philippines blamed each other for a ship collision in the South China Sea, escalating tensions over the disputed waters. The incident involved the Philippine coast guard ship BRP Teresa Magbanua and a Chinese coast guard vessel. The United States condemned China's actions and reaffirmed its treaty obligations to defend the Philippines.

China and the Philippines accused each other of causing a collision between their vessels, intensifying tensions over disputed waters in the South China Sea. A Chinese coast guard spokesperson stated that a Philippine ship maneuvered dangerously to collide with a Chinese vessel.

Philippine officials claimed their coast guard ship, BRP Teresa Magbanua, was rammed by the Chinese vessel, damaging their ship without provocation. This second confrontation in days occurred near Sabina Shoal, within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. The Magbanua remains anchored at Sabina despite Chinese protests.

The U.S. condemned China's actions and reiterated its treaty obligations to defend the Philippines. As confrontations grow increasingly hostile, questions arise regarding invoking the treaty alliance. The incident underscores the broader geopolitical tensions involving multiple claimants in the South China Sea.

(With inputs from agencies.)