Philippines-China South China Sea Deal Faces Uncertainty
Conflicting statements over resupply missions to disputed shoal create tension and skepticism
- Philippines and China have differing interpretations of a provisional agreement on resupply missions.
- China claims the Philippines must provide advance notice and allow on-site inspections, which Manila denies.
- Analysts doubt the deal's viability due to the lack of a publicly released agreement text.
- Recent clashes, including a violent incident in June, have heightened concerns over potential conflict.
- The US has expressed support for the Philippines, emphasizing the importance of de-escalation.