Naval ships crash in disputed waters of South China
Date
6/25/2024 8:18:52 AM
(MENAFN) In a recent incident escalating tensions in the South China Sea, a collision occurred between a Chinese Coast Guard vessel and a Philippine navy boat, prompting conflicting narratives from both sides. The clash unfolded as the Philippine vessel attempted a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded tank landing vessel stationed near the Spratly Islands.
The BRP Sierra Madre, originally a World War II-era ship intentionally grounded in 1999, serves as a strategic outpost for the Philippine military in the disputed waters. According to statements from the Philippine military, the collision resulted in severe injury to a navy personnel, attributing it to the China Coast Guard's alleged deliberate and high-speed ramming during the resupply operation on June 17.
Conversely, the Chinese Coast Guard countered with claims that the Philippine vessel had dangerously approached and intentionally collided with their ship while attempting to supply the "illegally grounded warship." They asserted that their response to the incident was lawful and aimed at ensuring control and security in the area.
The collision has drawn international attention, with the United States siding with the Philippine account. The United States Department of State criticized China's actions as "escalatory and irresponsible," accusing the Chinese vessel of obstructing the lawful delivery of humanitarian supplies to Philippine service members stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre.
As tensions persist in the South China Sea, characterized by overlapping territorial claims and strategic interests, the incident underscores the volatile nature of maritime disputes in the region. The clash between naval vessels highlights ongoing challenges in managing territorial conflicts and enforcing maritime law amid competing claims and geopolitical maneuvers.
MENAFN25062024000045015687ID1108370516
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.