China Conducts Military Patrols In South China Sea Amid US Naval Drills

In a recent development, China’s military has initiated air and sea patrols in the strategically vital South China Sea. This action is perceived as a direct response to the U.S.-led naval exercises in the region, escalating tensions between the global powers.

What Happened: China’s military has carried out air and sea patrols in the South China Sea, a move seen as a counter to recent US-led naval exercises, Politico reported on Sunday.

The patrols were described as a means to manage any disruptions in the region, following the announcement of joint naval exercises by the defense chiefs of the United States, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines on Saturday. These exercises are intended to affirm international laws and the freedom of navigation in the disputed waters.

China’s Southern Theater Command issued a statement asserting control over military activities that could destabilize the region. Notably, the Chinese military’s announcement did not directly reference the United States or its allies’ joint exercises.

See Also: Biden Vs. Trump Matchup Shows Tight Race But New Poll Identifies Two Issues That Could Resolve The Deadlock

Concurrently, the allied nations involved in the naval drills avoided mentioning China in their statement. However, they did emphasize the significance of a 2016 international arbitration ruling that dismissed China’s extensive territorial claims in the South China Sea as legally binding.

The escalation of tensions comes ahead of a key summit at the White House, where U.S. President Joe Biden is set to discuss the situation with his Japanese and Philippine counterparts.

Why It Matters: The current military maneuvers by China in the South China Sea are not isolated incidents but part of a broader narrative of rising tensions in the region. President Biden is poised to address these concerns in upcoming summits with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., signaling the seriousness with which the U.S. views China’s escalating activities.

Earlier, Taiwan’s top security official had advised President Tsai Ing-wen to reconsider a planned visit to the South China Sea due to the increasing military tensions and safety risks in the area.

Furthermore, the U.S. has reaffirmed its “ironclad commitment” to defend the Philippines, as stated by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. This reiteration of support underscores the strategic importance of the South China Sea, which is a critical corridor for international trade and security and highlights the U.S.’s dedication to standing with its allies against any provocative actions in the region.

Read Next: Trump’s Niece Tells How Florida Supreme Court Abortion Ruling Could Trigger ‘Seismic Shift’ In Red State  And ‘Give Donald Nightmares’

Image made via photos on Shutterstock