Chinese and Philippine coast guard ships collided at sea near Sabina Shoal, a disputed atoll in the Spratly Islands. Both countries blamed each other for the collision, with China accusing the Philippines of intentionally crashing into their ship and the Philippines alleging that Chinese vessels engaged in dangerous maneuvers. The collision resulted in structural damage to both Philippine Coast Guard vessels.
Sabina Shoal has become a new flashpoint in the territorial disputes between China and the Philippines, with the Philippines deploying patrol ships to the area after the discovery of crushed corals raising suspicions of Chinese construction. The region has been the scene of increasing confrontations between Chinese and Philippine coast guard ships.
Despite tensions, the Philippines successfully transported food and personnel to the Second Thomas Shoal, another disputed area, following an agreement with China to prevent further confrontations. This move raised hopes that tensions in the area would ease.
China’s sweeping maritime claims in the South China Sea have led to conflicts with many countries in the region. The disputed waters are strategically important and resource-rich, leading to ongoing territorial disputes. China’s claims in the South China Sea, as depicted by the 10-dash line on official maps, have sparked tensions and confrontations with neighboring countries.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com