You might not notice Second Thomas Shoal from the air. The disputed atoll near the Philippines is a bit larger than Manhattan and sinks beneath the South China Sea’s surface at high tide. However, diplomats and military officials closely monitor clashes near the shoal between Philippine and Chinese vessels, fearing that an incident could escalate into a deadly conflict and trigger the activation of the mutual defense treaty between the Philippines and the United States. Such a scenario could potentially lead to a war between the United States and China.
Why the South China Sea Matters
The South China Sea holds significant value and is a subject of contention due to various reasons:
- Strategic Importance: The sea features some of the world’s most productive fisheries and vital shipping channels that handle approximately one-third of global ocean trade. It is also believed to harbor substantial oil and natural gas reserves.
- Historical Context: Until the late 19th century, the sea’s features were largely unknown to governments. However, in the mid-20th century, Beijing asserted expansive territorial claims over most of the sea with a far-reaching, U-shaped boundary.
In a previous tense encounter near Second Thomas Shoal, Chinese Coast Guard vessels confronted Philippine Navy ships, leading to a confrontation captured in footage released by the Philippine military. The incident included Chinese sailors brandishing knives, resulting in an injury to one of the Philippine sailors, highlighting the potential for volatile situations in the region.
