U.S. monitoring Chinese activity in South China Sea around disputed shoal
Washington — U.S. intelligence agencies are closely monitoring activity at a disputed shoal in the South China Sea amid growing concerns that China may be laying the groundwork for a more permanent presence at one of the region's most volatile maritime flash points, a move that could further inflame tensions with the Philippines and test Washington's commitment to a treaty ally.
TL;DR
- U.S. intelligence agencies are monitoring China's activities near Scarborough Shoal due to concerns over a potential permanent presence.
- China installed a 'scientific structure' on the disputed shoal, which the Philippines considers illegal and an infringement on its exclusive economic zone.
- The U.S. has engaged with China regarding the structure, which the People's Liberation Army did not fully disavow potential use by its elements.
- Scarborough Shoal is strategically located within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, but China has maintained de facto control since 2012.
- This activity is seen by some U.S. and Philippine officials as part of China's incremental efforts to consolidate control over South China Sea features, similar to past island-building in the Spratly Islands.
- China rejects Philippine objections, asserting sovereignty over the shoal and its adjacent waters, and urges the Philippines and U.S. to cease provocations and discord.
- Past U.S. military planning has included 'show of force' options near the shoal to counter Chinese aggression and defend Philippine sovereignty.
- China's previous announcement of a 'national nature reserve' in the area was criticized as a coercive attempt to advance territorial claims and restrict Filipino fishermen.