The Philippine government has accused China of carrying out a military laser strike against one of its coastal defense ships in the South China Sea. The crew was temporarily blinded, it said in a protest note to the Beijing government. The complaint referred to “a threat to Philippine sovereignty and security as a state”.
In addition, the Chinese Coast Guard ship had performed “dangerous maneuvers”. The incident reportedly took place on February 6 near the Second Thomas Shoal. The underwater reef is part of the Spratly Islands. A stranded World War II transport ship lies off it filipino Used by the military as an outpost. A supply ship would be escorted there. As a result of the laser operation, the BRP Malapascua had to leave the area again.
Territorial dispute in the South China Sea
China claims the entire strategically important archipelago, while Brunei, Malaysia and the Philippines each claim part of the islands. There are military garrisons on many of the otherwise uninhabited islands. China has also built artificial island extensions that also have runways for airplanes and helicopters.
In the South China Sea, there are always incidents due to territorial conflicts. China claims 80 percent of the resource-rich sea area with important shipping lanes. The International Court of Arbitration in The Hague rejected the claims in 2016. Beijing ignores the verdict.
agreement broken
China’s failure to abide by the agreement reached by the presidents of the two countries a month ago has angered the Philippine government in particular. The two sides pledged to “manage maritime differences through diplomacy and dialogue, without resorting to violence and intimidation”.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
