Philippines Accuses China of Water Cannon Attacks on Vessels

The Philippine Coast Guard reported that Chinese vessels used water cannons on Philippine ships for a second consecutive day near the Second Thomas Shoal. The incident occurred on June 17, 2024, involving 12 China Coast Guard vessels and three Chinese maritime militia vessels. This action is part of an ongoing territorial dispute in the South China Sea.

Philippine officials stated that the water cannon use was "illegal" and "dangerous," causing damage to the Philippine vessels. The Philippine Coast Guard condemned the actions, calling them a "blatant" violation of international law and a disregard for the safety of navigation. The vessels were on a routine resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded Philippine Navy ship that serves as a military outpost.

China, however, claims its coast guard vessels took "necessary measures" to stop Philippine ships from delivering "illegal" construction materials to the shoal. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that China has "indisputable sovereignty" over the Nansha Islands, which include the shoal. He urged the Philippines to "stop infringing upon China's sovereignty and stop its provocative actions."

This confrontation marks an escalation in tensions between the two nations over the disputed maritime territory. The United States, an ally of the Philippines, has reiterated its commitment to the mutual defense treaty, stating that an armed attack on Philippine public vessels would invoke its defense obligations. The incident underscores the persistent challenges in managing maritime disputes in the region and the potential for further diplomatic friction.