Ayungin Shoal, contested reef in the Spratlys
The Guardian, The Japan Times, AP News, and others report Beijing’s export controls on dual-use items target Japanese firms as Tokyo expands its defense posture. Detentions of Japanese nationals in China over alleged rare-earths-related export violations are intensifying the diplomatic row. The moves come after Japanese comments on Taiwan and potential military action raised Beijing’s alarm.
Video shows a clash at Second Thomas Shoal as a Chinese coast guard vessel allegedly struck a Philippine sailor with a wooden baton; Manila maintains a constitutional right to resupply the outpost, while Beijing asserts its claim. The incident follows a long-running dispute in the West Philippine Sea and comes ahead of ASEAN talks in Manila.
The Philippines reports a confrontation at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, with a Philippine sailor injured by a Chinese baton. Beijing denies wrongdoing as tensions surge ahead of ASEAN meetings and U.S. involvement signals broader regional stakes.