Australian Naval Divers Injured by Chinese Destroyer's Sonar Operation

Incident raises concerns over Australia-China relations as Prime Minister Albanese criticizes China's 'dangerous' conduct.

Australian naval divers were injured when a Chinese destroyer used sonar near their ship, the HMAS Toowoomba, while they were clearing fishing nets from its propellers.
Despite being warned of the diving operation, the Chinese destroyer continued its sonar operation, forcing the divers to exit the water.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized China for the 'dangerous, unsafe and unprofessional' encounter but did not confirm if he raised the issue with Chinese President Xi Jinping during recent talks.
China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning defended the Chinese military's actions, stating they were 'highly disciplined' and operated in accordance with international law.
The incident has sparked concerns over the improving bilateral relations between Australia and China, with Albanese stating that such events 'should not occur.'