Scarborough Shoal dispute: China blocks access in South China Sea

Context: Scarborough Shoal dispute

China is deploying ships and barriers to block access to Scarborough Shoal, escalating tensions with the Philippines in the South China Sea.

PYQ – 2022, Ans – B

Scarborough Shoal

• Located in South China Sea near Philippines
• Within Philippines Exclusive Economic Zone
• Claimed by China and Philippines
• China has de facto control since 2012 standoff
• 2016 UNCLOS arbitration ruled in favour of Philippines rejected by China
• Important for fishing and strategic access

Other disputed features in South China Sea

• Paracel Islands — China vs Vietnam
• Spratly Islands — China vs Vietnam Philippines Malaysia Brunei Taiwan
• Second Thomas Shoal — China vs Philippines
• Natuna waters — China vs Indonesia
• Pratas Island — China vs Taiwan

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