The conflict in the South China Sea

The conflict in the South China Sea 

Incident is connected with increased American presence 

The incident between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea is linked to the Philippines' rapprochement with the United States.  

Both Reuters and AP note that the Chinese laser fire came a few days after the Philippines and the United States signed an agreement to give American soldiers access to more military bases in the Philippines.  

China claims almost the entire sea, and has an ongoing conflict with several other countries in the immediate area. The United States has sent forces to the area, according to its own statement to ensure that trade routes are not disrupted. China, in turn, has criticized the Americans and warned them against getting involved in the conflict. 

Picture of the Chinese ship. AP  

The conflict in the South China Sea  

Philippines: China used military laser against boat  

The Chinese Coast Guard has used a military-grade laser searchlight against its Philippine counterpart, the Philippines said, according to multiple media outlets. 

The incident reportedly occurred on February 6 near the Spratly Islands - a disputed area in the South China Sea. The Philippines claims that the Chinese ship made several dangerous maneuvers and calls the incident a "blatant violation of the country's sovereignty".  

China claims almost all of the South China Sea, but several nearby countries claim parts of the area.