In 1999, Philippines grounded a ship called Sierra Madre at a tiny atoll which is called the Second Thomas Shoal internationally, Renai Reef by China, and Ayungin in the Philippines. The atoll belongs to a group of islands called the Spratly Islands.
This was done to mark Philippines territory over this area. This area falls within the Exclusive Economic Zome (EEZ) of Philippines (within 200 nautical miles/370 kms from its coast).
This grounded ship now acts like a military outpost of Philippines.
This ship, as the map shows, is in the South China Sea. China claims that almost the entire South China Sea comes under its rule. This leads to a conflict with Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.
Philippines has claimed that Chinese vessels have always tried to disrupt vessels that were taking supplies to Sierra Madre.
On August 5th, a Filipino ship taking supplies to Sierra Madre was sprayed with water cannons by the Chinese coast guard.
This was an act of aggression.
In military terms, an act of aggression is when one country does some action that amounts to staking claim over that land, without actually declaring war.
China said that the act was a “warning.”
Since then, China and Philipines have been engaged in a diplomatic war. China has been asking Philippines to remove the ship.
Philippines has the support of the USA. But China has been releasing statements asking Philippines to vacate the toll.
Japan and France, through their embassies in Manila (the capital of Philippines) have expressed concern at China’s action.
China claims that Philippines has promised to withdraw Sierra Madre but not fulfilled that promise. This has led to protests from the Philippines. Philipppines claims that neither was such a promise or treaty ever made, nor will it ever let go of the atoll to protect its territorial integrity.
However, after August 5th, another Filipino boat has been able to make a supply trip to Sierra Madre successfully.
Featured Image tweeted by @pptsenp. This is a picture of the Filipino flag being hoised on board Sierra Madre. undated.