Raja Krishnamoorthi, the Ranking Member of the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), has criticized the CCP for its aggression towards its neighbors, particularly the recent incident involving Chinese ships colliding with multiple Philippine boats. Krishnamoorthi stated, "The CCP continues to show aggression towards its neighbors, including, most recently, the Philippines. Such actions risk further escalation, and they must stop."

The incident took place in the Second Thomas Shoal area, where a Chinese coast guard ship, accompanied by another vessel, collided with a Philippine coast guard ship and a military-operated supply boat. Fortunately, the Philippine boats were able to maneuver quickly, minimizing the severity of the collision. These boats were en route to deliver supplies to a military outpost that has been under a Chinese blockade.

Reports indicate that the Chinese coast guards are refusing to take responsibility for the incident. Instead, they claim that the Philippine boats were trespassing in waters that belong to China. China also asserts that the Philippine boats were given prior warnings before the Chinese vessels took action.

“On two separate occasions over the weekend, vessels of the Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia forces rammed Philippine ships operating legally in the South China Sea," said Mike Gallagher, Chairman of the Select Committee on the CCP, according to a press release from the Select Committee. "The Chinese Communist Party’s dangerous, and illegal, attacks against our ally are completely unacceptable It is time to take additional measures to support our commitments under the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, including by assisting the Philippines in establishing a more secure and permanent foothold on the Second Thomas Shoal.”

“The People’s Republic of China’s ramming of two Philippine ships in the South China Sea yesterday is dangerous and unacceptable," said Krishnamoorthi, according to a press release from the Select Committee Democrats. "Obstructing the Philippines from lawfully sailing in its exclusive economic zone violates international law and endangers an American treaty ally. The international community must denounce these provocative actions and make clear that the PRC’s bullying tactics will only make us more resolute in the face of its aggressive behavior.”

The collision between Chinese and Philippine ships in the Second Thomas Shoal area highlights the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. The actions of the Chinese coast guards and maritime militia forces have raised concerns among international observers. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for diplomatic efforts to address territorial disputes and prevent further escalation in the region.