Tensions Rise as U.S. Supports Philippines in South China Sea Dispute

The United States Department of State expressed support for the Philippines after Chinese ships engaged in reckless maneuvers and obstructed the safe operations of Philippine vessels in the South China Sea. The actions by China not only jeopardized the safety of Filipino crew members but also violated international law. The United States called upon China to abide by the 2016 arbitral decision, which concluded that China has no lawful maritime claims to the waters around Second Thomas Shoal. The U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, which extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the South China Sea.