OPINION:
China is still bristling at the arbitration case out of The Hague, which called its claims in the South China Sea baseless. The People’s Republic has especially chaffed at U.S. freedom of navigation sea patrols and flights in the disputed area. It seems the Chinese military has decided to increase tensions by starting combat air patrols over the territory it has claimed in violation of international law.
Air force spokesman Senior Col. Shen Jinke said in an online statement that the patrol was “to enhance combat capabilities to deal with various security threats” and to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. Shen said bomber and fighter aircraft, early warning aircraft, reconnaissance planes and planes that can refuel in flight patrolled the airspace around the Spratly Islands, Scarborough Shoal and surrounding areas, reports Fox News.
The U.S. and its allies have no choice but to stand up to these bullying tactics no matter the cost. Otherwise, the world descends into totalitarianism and war. Strength is the only path to peace unfortunately. Hopefully, the next American president will understand this.
Follow the author
Please read our comment policy before commenting.