Overview

• A Philippine civilian vessel delivered troops and supplies to Second Thomas Shoal, escorted by a coast guard cutter.
• China monitored the mission but did not interfere, in line with a recent de-escalation agreement.
• Manila disputes Beijing's claim that China allowed the mission, emphasizing it did not seek permission.
• Both nations have differing interpretations of the provisional arrangement aimed at reducing conflict.
• The South China Sea remains a hotbed of territorial disputes involving multiple countries.