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yesterday

China Uses Water Cannon to Expel Philippine Vessel From Scarborough Shoal

Beijing’s coast guard action highlights its readiness to enforce expansive territorial claims in defiance of the 2016 Hague ruling.

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Ships belonging to China's so-called Maritime Militia spotted at Iroquois Reef in the South China Sea's disputed Spratly Islands on June 19, 2025.
Philippine Coast Guard

Overview

  • On June 20, China’s coast guard deployed water cannon and repeated warnings to drive Philippine government vessel No. 3306 from Scarborough Shoal.
  • On June 19, the Philippine Coast Guard dispatched two vessels and an aircraft to Rozul Reef after spotting more than 50 Chinese Maritime Militia ships within its exclusive economic zone.
  • The dispute hinges on overlapping claims under China’s nine-dash line and the Philippines’ 200-nautical-mile EEZ despite a 2016 Hague tribunal ruling against Beijing’s sweeping assertions.
  • Manila has bolstered security cooperation with the United States and middle powers such as Japan while accelerating its naval modernization and patrol operations.
  • The United States has reaffirmed its defense commitment to the Philippines, warning that further clashes could invoke mutual defense treaty obligations.