Iran Press/Asia: Reuters described this confrontation as the latest in a series of maritime and aerial encounters between the two nations in this strategic waterway. The report added that these incidents have overshadowed recent efforts by both countries to build trust and better manage their differences after months of conflict.
In June, during the last round of violent confrontations between Manila and Beijing in the disputed waters, eight sailors were injured, and one Filipino sailor lost a finger.
The Philippines has accused China of carrying out "dangerous and aggressive maneuvers" to obstruct a resupply mission, while China's Coast Guard has stated that it has taken "control measures" against vessels that illegally entered the waters and repeatedly approached Chinese ships in dangerous ways.
Reuters reported that Beijing's task force in the South China Sea recently attacked a Philippine Fisheries Bureau vessel near the "Sabina Shoal" area. The vessel was carrying food, fuel, and supplies for fishermen.
China claims control over nearly all areas of the South China Sea, including regions claimed by the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Brunei. To protect its interests, China has deployed a fleet of ships in the area.
Last month, China and the Philippines agreed during high-level talks to "build trust" and "restore confidence" in managing their maritime disputes.
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