The Bottom Line Upfront
The Philippines has summoned a Chinese diplomat after China's use of a water cannon against two Philippine vessels in the South China Sea. This incident marks the 20th protest by the Philippines against China's conduct this year, escalating tensions over the disputed territory of the South China Sea. The Philippines and China dispute mainly the Scarborough Shoal and the Spratly Islands.
The Breakdown
- The use of water cannons by China against Philippine vessels in the South China Sea raises concerns about the escalating tensions and potential for further conflict in the region.
- The Philippines has summoned a Chinese diplomat, accusing China of "harassment" and "dangerous maneuvers" after its use of a water cannon against two Philippine vessels during a patrol in the South China Sea.
- This incident at the disputed shoal is the 20th protest by the Philippines against China's coastguard and fishing vessels this year, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region.
- The Philippines has made 153 complaints against China's conduct over the past two years.
- China blockaded and seized the Scarborough Shoal from the Philippines in 2012.
- The Scarborough Shoal, claimed by both China and the Philippines, has been a point of contention between the two countries for years. The recent use of water cannons by China against Philippine vessels further escalates tensions in the South China Sea.
