ASIATODAY.ID, MANILA – Three Filipino soldiers were reportedly injured by a Chinese coast guard water cannon attack near a coral reef area in the South China Sea. The incident with the Philippine supply ship was disclosed by the country’s national security adviser in Manila, Sunday, March 24 2024.
The Philippine government said the confrontation occurred on Saturday, March 23, 2024, causing severe damage to the Unaizah May 4. When the incident occurred, the ship was on its way to deliver troops and supplies to a Philippine navy ship that was grounded at Second Thomas Shoal.
China claims almost the entire South China Sea area, and ignores the claims of other countries, including the Philippines, which states that China’s statement has no legal basis.
Philippine national security adviser Eduardo Ano said three navy personnel on board the ship were injured in the incident.
The extent of their injuries was not disclosed, although the military said the personnel were being treated on a coast guard escort ship.
Previously, on March 5, four Filipino crew members were injured by broken glass by a Chinese Coast Guard water cannon.
“This is just a normal rotation and supply operation, but look at how China reacts,” Ano told reporters.
The United States, which has a mutual defense treaty with Manila, condemned the attack.
“China’s actions undermine regional stability and demonstrate a disregard for international law,” said US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.
China’s Coast Guard defended its actions, describing them as lawful regulation, interception and expulsion of foreign vessels attempting to forcibly intrude into its territorial waters. (AT Network)
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