Tensions Escalate as Philippines and China Clash in South China Sea

The Chinese coast guard has assaulted Philippine vessels for a second consecutive day, using water cannons and ramming one of the ships, causing serious engine damage. The confrontation occurred near Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, where Philippine navy-operated supply boats and coast guard escort ships were delivering supplies to Filipino forces. China claims that the Philippine vessels violated its sovereignty and intentionally collided with a Chinese coast guard ship. These hostilities have raised concerns of an armed conflict involving the United States, which has pledged to defend the Philippines as its treaty ally.