U.S. Defense Chief Backs Philippines, Criticizes Chinese Conduct

• U.S. commits to supporting the Philippines amidst South China Sea tensions.

• Defense chief emphasizes upholding international law and criticizes China's actions.

• U.S. reaffirms strong alliance with the Philippines and solidarity against Chinese aggression.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin testifies before a House Armed Services Committee hearing about his failure to disclose his cancer diagnosis and subsequent hospitalizations, on Capitol Hill

Reuters

The United States Secretary of Defense recently reiterated the country's commitment to supporting the Philippines amidst escalating tensions in the South China Sea. The defense chief emphasized the importance of upholding international law and criticized what he described as 'dangerous' behavior by China in the region.

During a meeting with Philippine officials, the U.S. defense chief reaffirmed the strong alliance between the two countries and expressed solidarity with the Philippines in the face of Chinese aggression. The United States has been a longstanding ally of the Philippines and has provided military assistance and support in the region.

The defense chief's comments come at a time of heightened tensions in the South China Sea, where China has been asserting its territorial claims and expanding its military presence. The United States has repeatedly called for a peaceful resolution to the disputes in the region and has conducted freedom of navigation operations to challenge China's excessive maritime claims.

In response to China's actions, the U.S. defense chief warned against the risks posed by Beijing's conduct and emphasized the need for all countries to respect international norms and rules. He underscored the importance of upholding the principles of freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea.

The United States remains committed to supporting its allies in the Asia-Pacific region and ensuring stability and security in the South China Sea. The defense chief's reaffirmation of support for the Philippines signals Washington's continued efforts to counter Chinese assertiveness and uphold a rules-based order in the region.