A Vietnamese fishing vessel encountered a violent incident near the disputed Paracel Islands in the South China Sea, resulting in injuries to ten crew members. The attack, reported on September 29, 2024, has reignited tensions in the region, where multiple nations assert territorial claims.
According to Vietnamese state media, three fishermen suffered broken limbs, while seven others sustained various injuries. The identity of the attacking vessel remains undisclosed, adding to the complexity of the situation. Local authorities in Quang Ngai province's Binh Chau commune confirmed the incident, with Vietnam's border guard launching an investigation.
The Paracel Islands, situated approximately 400 kilometers off Vietnam's eastern coast and equidistant from China's Hainan province, are at the center of a territorial dispute involving Vietnam, China, and Taiwan. This archipelago, covering about 15,000 square kilometers, consists of roughly 130 small coral islands and reefs, devoid of indigenous inhabitants.
The strategic importance of the Paracel Islands extends beyond their geographical location. The area is rich in guano deposits, valuable as fertilizer, and is believed to harbor substantial oil and natural gas reserves. The US Energy Information Administration estimates that the South China Sea contains 11 billion barrels of oil, underscoring its economic significance.
China has maintained de facto control over the Paracel Islands since 1974, when it seized them from Vietnam in a brief naval conflict known as the Battle of the Paracel Islands. This historical event marked a turning point in the region's geopolitical landscape.
In recent years, China has intensified its presence in the area. Satellite imagery from 2023 revealed the construction of an airstrip on Triton Island, part of the Paracel group. This development, along with existing infrastructure including a harbor, buildings, a helipad, and radar arrays, has raised concerns about militarization in the region.
China's assertive claims in the South China Sea have led to confrontations with neighboring countries, particularly the Philippines and Vietnam. The situation is further complicated by the involvement of the United States, which, despite having no territorial claims, conducts regular naval and air patrols in the area to ensure freedom of navigation.
The South China Sea's importance extends beyond regional disputes. It serves as a crucial global trade route, with approximately $5 trillion in annual trade passing through its waters. Moreover, the sea is a vital fishing ground, accounting for about 10% of the global fish catch.
The international community has attempted to address the territorial disputes. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled against China's claims in the South China Sea. However, China rejected this ruling, maintaining its stance based on the Nine-dash line demarcation.
As tensions persist, the recent attack on the Vietnamese fishing vessel serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in the region. With its tropical maritime climate and frequent typhoons, the Paracel Islands continue to be a focal point of international attention, balancing historical claims, economic interests, and strategic considerations in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
"Three fishermen suffered broken limbs and seven others received other injuries."
This incident underscores the need for diplomatic solutions and international cooperation to ensure the safety of maritime activities and maintain stability in the South China Sea.