China Accuses Philippine Vessel of Collision Near Second Thomas Shoal in South China Sea

Aug 18, 2024, 11:45 PM

Tensions in the South China Sea have escalated following an incident involving the Philippine and Chinese coast guards. On Monday, a Philippine coast guard vessel reportedly collided with a Chinese vessel near the disputed Second Thomas Shoal. China accused the Philippine vessel of deliberately causing the collision in a 'dangerous' manner, following repeated warnings. The incident occurred amidst ongoing disputes over the territorial waters surrounding the Xianbin Reef, part of the Nansha Islands, which China claims as its own. The Chinese Coast Guard has accused the Philippines of illegally intruding into these waters without permission, including areas adjacent to Sabina Shoal. The Philippines maintains that its vessel was operating within its own territory.