China Accuses U.S. of Inciting Tensions via Philippines in South China Sea Dispute- China has issued a firm warning to the United States, accusing Washington of using the Philippines to create instability in the South China Sea. The Chinese Foreign Ministry called on both the U.S. and the Philippines to halt actions that it claims violate Chinese sovereignty, specifically referencing ongoing incidents near Tiexian Jiao—also known as Sandy Cay—within the disputed Nansha Qundao (Spratly Islands).
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning addressed the issue during a press briefing on Friday. She was responding to a recent post on social media platform X by U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, who commented on confrontations between Chinese coast guard vessels and Philippine fishing boats operating near Tiexian Jiao.
Mao criticized the Philippines for what she described as repeated, unauthorized landings on the reef, claiming such actions are illegal and infringe upon China’s territorial integrity. “These acts constitute serious violations of China’s sovereignty and breach the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea,” she stated.
Mao emphasized that China’s enforcement activities around the reef are within legal bounds. “The Chinese coast guard has acted in accordance with both international law and domestic regulations to defend our lawful rights,” she said.
She further accused the United States of encouraging Manila’s actions, describing this as a deliberate move to destabilize the region. “We urge the U.S. to stop manipulating the Philippines and interfering in South China Sea affairs. Such behavior undermines regional peace and security,” Mao said.
The spokesperson issued a stern warning to Manila, calling for an immediate end to what she termed “provocative and unlawful activities” on Tiexian Jiao. “If the Philippines continues its provocations, China will take firm countermeasures,” Mao warned.
Tensions in the South China Sea have been escalating in recent months, with repeated encounters between Chinese vessels and those of other claimant states. China asserts sweeping claims over most of the sea, while the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan also lay claims to parts of the territory.
While the U.S. holds no direct claim in the region, it maintains a strong military and diplomatic presence, citing its commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and upholding international law. Recent joint patrols by the U.S. and Philippine forces have added to Beijing’s concerns.
Analysts warn that continued standoffs and diplomatic exchanges may raise the risk of unintended conflict in one of the world’s most strategically sensitive maritime zones.
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