The Irish Navy said it escorted a Russian spy ship out of its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), an area critical for energy and submarine pipelines and cables, on Friday (Nov 15). The spy ship was earlier spotted by Norwegian, United States, French and British navy and air defence services on Thursday (Nov 14) east of Dublin and southwest of the Isle of Man as it was accompanying Russian warship Admiral Golovko.

The Irish Navy’s LÉ James Joyce ship reportedly forced the Russian spy ship out and continued to monitor it as it headed south.

<h2>Fresh concerns</h2>

Notably, there are lots of submarine internet cables that run between Ireland and the United Kingdom and are operated by tech companies like Google and Microsoft. Both tech majors have their headquarters in Ireland.

Earlier on Thursday, British defence forces had observed another Russian vessel near their eastern coastal waters. The ship was faring closer to the west of Cork, where there is another set of connectors between Ireland and France.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj4jPmt5uCJAxVOr1YBHanLF_UQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-abandoned-use-of-nuclear-weapon-in-ukraine-after-intervention-from-india-china-report-698455" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-abandoned-use-of-nuclear-weapon-in-ukraine-after-intervention-from-india-china-report-698455&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4jPmt5uCJAxVOr1YBHanLF_UQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">India`s intervention made Putin abandon use of nuclear weapon in Ukraine: Report</a>

Experts believe the situation is alarming, one that requires Ireland to ramp up its defence capabilities. “Once again we see the Russian navy probing the defences of western Europe. It’s yet another wake-up call – one that we shouldn’t need – that Ireland needs to bolster its naval capabilities and deepen its maritime security partnerships in Europe,” said Edward Burke, an assistant professor in the history of war at University College Dublin, while talking to Examiner.

Watch:&nbsp;Russian Navy eyeing a comeback as war with Ukraine continues

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The Irish Navy has claimed the Russian spy ship was conducting surveillance in its waters using drones.

The countries are alarmed following the alleged sabotage of the Baltic gas pipeline and undersea internet cables between Finland and Estonia earlier this year. Later China acknowledged a Hong Kong ship was responsible for the damage but claimed it was purely accidental.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Irish Navy said it escorted a Russian spy ship out of its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), an area critical for energy and submarine pipelines and cables, on Friday (Nov 15).

The Irish Navy said it escorted a Russian spy ship out of its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), an area critical for energy and submarine pipelines and cables, on Friday (Nov 15). The spy ship was earlier spotted by Norwegian, United States, French and British navy and air defence services on Thursday (Nov 14) east of Dublin and southwest of the Isle of Man as it was accompanying Russian warship Admiral Golovko. The Irish Navy’s LÉ James Joyce ship reportedly forced the Russian spy ship out and continued to monitor it as it headed south. Fresh concerns Notably, there are lots of submarine internet cables that run between Ireland and the United Kingdom and are operated by tech companies like Google and Microsoft. Both tech majors have their headquarters in Ireland. Earlier on Thursday, British defence forces had observed another Russian vessel near their eastern coastal waters. The ship was faring closer to the west of Cork, where there is another set of connectors between Ireland and France. Also read: India`s intervention made Putin abandon use of nuclear weapon in Ukraine: Report Experts believe the situation is alarming, one that requires Ireland to ramp up its defence capabilities. “Once again we see the Russian navy probing the defences of western Europe. It’s yet another wake-up call – one that we shouldn’t need – that Ireland needs to bolster its naval capabilities and deepen its maritime security partnerships in Europe,” said Edward Burke, an assistant professor in the history of war at University College Dublin, while talking to Examiner. Watch: Russian Navy eyeing a comeback as war with Ukraine continues × The Irish Navy has claimed the Russian spy ship was conducting surveillance in its waters using drones. The countries are alarmed following the alleged sabotage of the Baltic gas pipeline and undersea internet cables between Finland and Estonia earlier this year. Later China acknowledged a Hong Kong ship was responsible for the damage but claimed it was purely accidental. (With inputs from agencies)

Ireland-UK submarine cables under threat? Irish Navy claims it escorted Russian spy ship out of EEZ

The Philippines is taking steps to drag China to an international tribunal over alleged harvesting and destruction of&nbsp;coral reefs within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

Manila on Thursday (Sept 21) said it would pursue legal action after its agencies assess the extent of environmental damage in the Iroquois Reef in the Spratly islands.

On Wednesday, the Office of the Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said in a statement that they were currently in the “fact-finding and data gathering stage” before presenting the case before the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague.

Watch:&nbsp;South China Sea row: Malaysia, China to have open communication over the South China Sea

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The study "was prompted not only by the alleged destruction of reefs but also by other incidents and the overall situation in the West Philippine Sea," Guevarra told Reuters, adding that a report and recommendation would be sent to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the foreign ministry.

<h2>China denies allegations</h2>

China on Thursday fired back at Manila for levelling “baseless” accusations against Beijing.&nbsp;

“The Philippines’ accusations have no factual basis. We urge the relevant parties of the Philippines not to use fabricated information to create a political drama from fiction,” a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-installs-ground-stations-in-disputed-south-china-sea-to-monitor-vessels-report-637869">Also read:&nbsp;China installs ground stations in disputed South China Sea to monitor vessels: Report</a>

“If the Philippines truly cares about the ecological environment of the South China Sea, it should tow away its illegally grounded warship (Sierra Madre) at Ren’ai Reef as soon as possible, stop discharging sewage into the ocean, and not let the rusting warship bring brings irreversible harm to the ocean,” the statement added.

<h2>Philippines-China ties</h2>

If the Philippines pursues this legal action against Beijing, it would mark its second such action concerning South China Sea disputes, following their victory in 2016. Nevertheless, China did not acknowledge the ruling from the PCA.

The Philippines and China are entangled in a sovereignty dispute over multiple islands in the contested South China Sea.

Beijing, asserting its claim over nearly the entire South China Sea, also faces territorial disagreements with Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Brunei in the same region.

Recent months have witnessed mounting tensions between the two nations, as Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. strengthens his country's defence alliance with the United States, reversing the approach taken by his predecessor, who sought closer ties with China.

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&nbsp;

The Philippines is taking steps to drag China to an international tribunal over alleged harvesting and destruction of coral reefs within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea.

The Philippines is taking steps to drag China to an international tribunal over alleged harvesting and destruction of coral reefs within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea. Manila on Thursday (Sept 21) said it would pursue legal action after its agencies assess the extent of environmental damage in the Iroquois Reef in the Spratly islands. On Wednesday, the Office of the Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said in a statement that they were currently in the “fact-finding and data gathering stage” before presenting the case before the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague. Watch: South China Sea row: Malaysia, China to have open communication over the South China Sea × The study "was prompted not only by the alleged destruction of reefs but also by other incidents and the overall situation in the West Philippine Sea," Guevarra told Reuters, adding that a report and recommendation would be sent to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the foreign ministry. China denies allegations China on Thursday fired back at Manila for levelling “baseless” accusations against Beijing. “The Philippines’ accusations have no factual basis. We urge the relevant parties of the Philippines not to use fabricated information to create a political drama from fiction,” a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry said. Also read: China installs ground stations in disputed South China Sea to monitor vessels: Report “If the Philippines truly cares about the ecological environment of the South China Sea, it should tow away its illegally grounded warship (Sierra Madre) at Ren’ai Reef as soon as possible, stop discharging sewage into the ocean, and not let the rusting warship bring brings irreversible harm to the ocean,” the statement added. Philippines-China ties If the Philippines pursues this legal action against Beijing, it would mark its second such action concerning South China Sea disputes, following their victory in 2016. Nevertheless, China did not acknowledge the ruling from the PCA. The Philippines and China are entangled in a sovereignty dispute over multiple islands in the contested South China Sea. Beijing, asserting its claim over nearly the entire South China Sea, also faces territorial disagreements with Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Brunei in the same region. Recent months have witnessed mounting tensions between the two nations, as Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. strengthens his country's defence alliance with the United States, reversing the approach taken by his predecessor, who sought closer ties with China. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

South China Sea: Philippines to drag China to international court for damaging coral reefs in EEZ

A Chinese research ship and its escort, which operated for nearly a month in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea and prompted a rare protest from Hanoi, left those waters late on Monday.

Chinese vessel Xiang Yang Hong 10 began sailing in Vietnam's EEZ on May 7, at times flanked by a dozen ships, regularly crossing gas and oil fields operated by Russian companies, according to vessel-tracking data.

The Chinese vessel and its entourage of more than half a dozen ships began their journey back to China's Hainan island, leaving Vietnam's EEZ around midnight, the data showed.

Asked about the movements of the ships, China's foreign ministry did not comment about the return to Hainan.

"It is legitimate and legal for Chinese research vessels to carry out normal research activities in waters under its jurisdiction, and there is no such issue about entering the exclusive economic zones of other countries," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at a regular press conference on Tuesday.

Vietnam's foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment.

Under international law, ships are allowed to sail through foreign EEZs, but unauthorised surveys are not permitted and China's operations in the South China Sea have long been problematic for countries in the region, as Beijing claims most of the energy-rich sea, including foreign EEZs.

In a rare public protest on May 25, Vietnam's government urged the Chinese research ship and its escort to leave the country's EEZ after a visit to Hanoi by senior Russian official Dmitry Medvedev.

The incident comes amid what Washington has described as "growing aggressiveness" from Beijing, following close encounters between U.S. and Chinese ships and jets in the area. Senior U.S. and Chinese officials held talks in Beijing on Monday that both parties called constructive.

At 0300 GMT on Tuesday, the Chinese research ship was seen approaching Hainan, said Ray Powell, who leads Stanford University's Project Myoushu on the South China Sea.

Vietnam's fisheries surveillance ships turned back after the Chinese vessel and its escort left Vietnam's EEZ around midnight Vietnam time, Powell added.

Vietnam-based researcher Van Pham, who heads independent non-profit South China Sea Chronicle Initiative (SCSCI), confirmed the ships had left Vietnam's EEZ but warned that Hainan was not the research ship's home port, and after a break there it could resume activities in the South China Sea.

A Chinese research ship and its escort, which operated for nearly a month in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea and prompted a rare protest from Hanoi, left those waters late on Monday.

A Chinese research ship and its escort, which operated for nearly a month in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea and prompted a rare protest from Hanoi, left those waters late on Monday. Chinese vessel Xiang Yang Hong 10 began sailing in Vietnam's EEZ on May 7, at times flanked by a dozen ships, regularly crossing gas and oil fields operated by Russian companies, according to vessel-tracking data. The Chinese vessel and its entourage of more than half a dozen ships began their journey back to China's Hainan island, leaving Vietnam's EEZ around midnight, the data showed. Asked about the movements of the ships, China's foreign ministry did not comment about the return to Hainan. "It is legitimate and legal for Chinese research vessels to carry out normal research activities in waters under its jurisdiction, and there is no such issue about entering the exclusive economic zones of other countries," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at a regular press conference on Tuesday. Vietnam's foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment. Under international law, ships are allowed to sail through foreign EEZs, but unauthorised surveys are not permitted and China's operations in the South China Sea have long been problematic for countries in the region, as Beijing claims most of the energy-rich sea, including foreign EEZs. In a rare public protest on May 25, Vietnam's government urged the Chinese research ship and its escort to leave the country's EEZ after a visit to Hanoi by senior Russian official Dmitry Medvedev. The incident comes amid what Washington has described as "growing aggressiveness" from Beijing, following close encounters between U.S. and Chinese ships and jets in the area. Senior U.S. and Chinese officials held talks in Beijing on Monday that both parties called constructive. At 0300 GMT on Tuesday, the Chinese research ship was seen approaching Hainan, said Ray Powell, who leads Stanford University's Project Myoushu on the South China Sea. Vietnam's fisheries surveillance ships turned back after the Chinese vessel and its escort left Vietnam's EEZ around midnight Vietnam time, Powell added. Vietnam-based researcher Van Pham, who heads independent non-profit South China Sea Chronicle Initiative (SCSCI), confirmed the ships had left Vietnam's EEZ but warned that Hainan was not the research ship's home port, and after a break there it could resume activities in the South China Sea.

Chinese ships leave Vietnam waters after Hanoi protest

In the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, tensions have risen between China and Japan. Reportedly, after Japan condemned China's military drills around Taiwan as a 'threat to regional peace and security', the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a lengthy statement questioning Tokyo's motives.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wang Wenbin, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press conference, "Japan has been acting so high-profile on the Taiwan question. Has it forgotten the commitment it made when signing the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement? Is it trying to subvert the political foundation of China-Japan relations?"

The ministry spokesperson further added, "Does it have the ambition to touch Taiwan again? Is Japan going to take this opportunity to expand its arms, abandon its pacifist constitution and abandon the path of peaceful development?"

Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-dont-think-theyre-going-to-do-anything-more-biden-on-chinese-military-drills-near-taiwan-504990">I don’t think they’re going to do anything more: Biden on Chinese military drills near Taiwan</a>

As reported extensively by WION, after Japan released a joint statement alongside G7 nations on Taiwan and Pelosi visited Japan, a miffed China fired five ballistic missiles in Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

However, at the conference, China's foreign ministry refused to accept that such an incident took place even place. Furthermore, Wang stated&nbsp;that there is no such thing as 'Japan's EEZ' in the area.&nbsp;

The G7 foreign ministers in their joint statement titled "Preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan strait" had called on China to resolve the tensions peacefully.&nbsp;

"We are concerned by recent and announced threatening actions by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), particularly live-fire exercises and economic coercion, which risk unnecessary escalation. There is no justification to use a visit as pretext for aggressive military activity in the Taiwan Strait," read the statement, of which Japan was a signatory.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/miffed-china-shelves-bilateral-meeting-with-japan-after-g7-statement-on-taiwan-503600">Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: China scraps meet with Japan over G7 statement</a>

Ever since Nancy Pelosi announced her decision to visit Taiwan, China had been threatening of dire consequences. While it didn't do much when Pelosi was in Taipei, it sure has engaged its afterburners since then.

A day after completing its biggest military exercise around the island nation, China announced that&nbsp;more such military drills were in the pipeline, including anti-submarine and sea assault operations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

In the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, tensions have risen between China and Japan. Reportedly, after Japan condemned China's military drills around Taiwan as a 'threat to regional peace and security', the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a lengthy statement questioning Tokyo's motives.

In the aftermath of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, tensions have risen between China and Japan. Reportedly, after Japan condemned China's military drills around Taiwan as a 'threat to regional peace and security', the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a lengthy statement questioning Tokyo's motives. Wang Wenbin, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press conference, "Japan has been acting so high-profile on the Taiwan question. Has it forgotten the commitment it made when signing the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement? Is it trying to subvert the political foundation of China-Japan relations?" The ministry spokesperson further added, "Does it have the ambition to touch Taiwan again? Is Japan going to take this opportunity to expand its arms, abandon its pacifist constitution and abandon the path of peaceful development?" Read More: I don’t think they’re going to do anything more: Biden on Chinese military drills near Taiwan As reported extensively by WION, after Japan released a joint statement alongside G7 nations on Taiwan and Pelosi visited Japan, a miffed China fired five ballistic missiles in Japan's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). However, at the conference, China's foreign ministry refused to accept that such an incident took place even place. Furthermore, Wang stated that there is no such thing as 'Japan's EEZ' in the area. The G7 foreign ministers in their joint statement titled "Preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan strait" had called on China to resolve the tensions peacefully. "We are concerned by recent and announced threatening actions by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), particularly live-fire exercises and economic coercion, which risk unnecessary escalation. There is no justification to use a visit as pretext for aggressive military activity in the Taiwan Strait," read the statement, of which Japan was a signatory. Read More: Nancy Pelosi Taiwan trip: China scraps meet with Japan over G7 statement Ever since Nancy Pelosi announced her decision to visit Taiwan, China had been threatening of dire consequences. While it didn't do much when Pelosi was in Taipei, it sure has engaged its afterburners since then. A day after completing its biggest military exercise around the island nation, China announced that more such military drills were in the pipeline, including anti-submarine and sea assault operations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

"Does it have the ambition to touch Taiwan again?", Chinese foreign ministry questions Japan

The unauthorised passage of a US naval ship through India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) has created a highly avoidable controversy, which prima-facie may appear to be a case of the conflict arising out of the interpretation and application of international and national laws but in fact, there is more than what meets the eyes and remains to be revealed.

The US 7th Fleet Commander announced (from an unspecified location in Arabian Sea) that “on 7th April 2021, the USS John Paul Jones (DDG53) (a guided-missile destroyer) asserted navigational rights and freedoms approximately 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep Islands, inside India’s exclusive economic zone, without requesting India’s prior consent”. It said its act was “consistent with international law”.&nbsp;

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The statement did not stop here but went on to add that India’s requirement of “prior consent for military exercises or manoeuvres in its exclusive economic zone or continental shelf”, was &nbsp;“inconsistent with international law”.&nbsp;

As if to add insult to injury, the US Navy asserted that the Freedom of Navigation Operation (FONOP) “upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognized in international law by challenging India’s excessive maritime claims”. Placing restrictions on the passage of ships through its territorial sea waters and EEZ etc. by any state is described by the USA as “excessive maritime claims”&nbsp;

It is apparent from the official statement that the US Navy’s decision not to send a prior notice or seek India’s prior consent was by design and not by default or any oversight. Besides, asserting the freedom of navigation in international waters, the US objective was also to challenge India’s national laws and stated position on the requirement of obtaining prior consent and also to act in defiance of India’s national laws. A serious enough matter.

Yet, India’s public response was reasonably guarded, dignified and restrained. According to an official statement by the Foreign Office (April 9), India has conveyed its “concerns regarding this passage through our EEZ to the Government of USA through diplomatic channels.”&nbsp;

No further details were made public.&nbsp;

Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-protests-us-navys-transit-through-its-exclusive-economic-zone-376721">India protests US Navy's transit through its exclusive economic zone</a> 
 
However, India has countered the US position by stating that the “Government of India’s stated position on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is that the convention does not authorise other states to carry out in the Exclusive Economic Zone and on the continental shelf, military exercises or manoeuvres, in particular, those involving the use of weapons or explosives, without the consent of the coastal state”.

The Statement also puts on record that the ship’s movements were being monitored throughout, implying that the Indian Navy was alert and not caught by surprise.

The US Navy has repeatedly justified its act as being consistent with “international law”. The UNCLOS 1982 is the only well-established international law on the subject under reference. Interestingly– or rather ironically- the US has not yet ratified UNCLOS, though it claims to adhere to several of its principles. &nbsp;

India is a signatory to UNCLOS and has also ratified it. In addition, there is national legislation governing the coastal regions within the sovereignty of India known as the Territorial Waters, Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone and others under Maritime Zones Act, 1976.

Section 4(2) of this act allows foreign warships including submarines and other underwater vehicles to enter or pass through the territorial waters after giving prior notice to the Central Government. They are also required to navigate on the surface and show their flags.&nbsp;

India is not the only country that imposes restrictions on the innocent passage of foreign military ships.

Even though one of the fundamental principles of UNCLOS is that all ships of all states, including both civilian and military vessels, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea of other states, the fact of the matter is that not all countries agree with this interpretation, particularly where the innocent passage of military vessels is concerned. &nbsp;

According to a briefing paper of June 2017 by the Harvard Kennedy School, titled “Freedom of Navigation in South China Sea: A Practical Guide", over 40 states impose restrictions on the innocent passage of military ships, including requiring permission or notice prior to transit under innocent passage.

The significance of this episode is not only in the legal aspects of the case. The cause of serious concern is the arrogant manner in which the US Navy has acted deliberately to challenge India’s position and has also gone public without caring for the implications.

The USA is known to challenge the “excessive maritime claims” by other states either through diplomatic communications, or bilateral/multilateral discussions or operational assertions. It is not clear as to whether the USA has exhausted the first two options with India before opting for “operational assertion” on April 7. &nbsp;

Most probably not.

As two sovereign countries, India and the USA have the legitimate right to differ with each other on any given matter.

However, the irresponsible and amateurish manner in which the US Navy decided to highlight this difference of opinion and enforce its own position and make it public is in complete contrast with the rapid growth in India-US ties culminating into “comprehensive global strategic partnership”; this is true in particular in defence and security areas.&nbsp;

For instance, in 2016, the United States designated India as a Major Defence Partner; in 2018, India was elevated to Strategic Trade Authorization Tier 1 status, which allows India to receive license-free access to a wide range of military and dual-use technologies regulated by the US Department of Commerce.&nbsp;

India and US have concluded the four defence and security related foundational agreements namely Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), Communications, Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), the Industrial Security Agreement (ISA) and Basic Exchange and Communication Agreement (BECA).

The US’s total defence trade with India has increased from near zero in 2008 to over $20 billion in 2020. &nbsp;The two countries have been participating in regular joint multilateral military exercises such as Malabar and tri-services exercises e.g. Triumph.&nbsp;

It is noteworthy that the incident took place in close heels of the Quad Summit (March 13) when both India and USA (along with Australia and Japan) reiterated their commitment to freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region which they would like to see as open, free and inclusive, where the rule of law prevails. 
&nbsp; 
Further, in the first outreach by the Biden Administration, the US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin paid a three-day visit to India from March 19, 2021, during which he termed India as a “great partner” and reaffirmed the importance which the USA attaches to India in promoting peace and stability in Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The US fully realises the important role which only India can play in support of the US plans to contain China.&nbsp;

In the above backdrop, the manner in which the US Navy has conducted itself publically is beyond comprehension but for sure objectionable.&nbsp;

It is difficult to digest- as being speculated by some international affairs analysts- that India was targeted with the objective of sending a message to China whose assertive, aggressive and expansionist behaviour in the Indo-Pacific is of concern to USA as well as many other countries in the region, including India.&nbsp;

It would be even more absurd to suggest that it was an operation jointly scripted by the USA and India to target a common adversary namely China.

The canvas of the Indo-US relations at the moment is extremely broad; this incident is, therefore, unlikely to cause any serious dent. It is important at the same time that the required measures are taken immediately to prevent the recurrence of such or similar incidents. A publicised damage control measure by the US Navy would be a bonus.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

The unauthorised passage of a US naval ship through India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) has created a highly avoidable controversy, which prima-facie may appear to be a case of the conflict arising out of the interpretation and application of international and national laws but in fact, there is more than what meets the eyes and remains to be revealed.

The unauthorised passage of a US naval ship through India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) has created a highly avoidable controversy, which prima-facie may appear to be a case of the conflict arising out of the interpretation and application of international and national laws but in fact, there is more than what meets the eyes and remains to be revealed. The US 7th Fleet Commander announced (from an unspecified location in Arabian Sea) that “on 7th April 2021, the USS John Paul Jones (DDG53) (a guided-missile destroyer) asserted navigational rights and freedoms approximately 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep Islands, inside India’s exclusive economic zone, without requesting India’s prior consent”. It said its act was “consistent with international law”. × The statement did not stop here but went on to add that India’s requirement of “prior consent for military exercises or manoeuvres in its exclusive economic zone or continental shelf”, was “inconsistent with international law”. As if to add insult to injury, the US Navy asserted that the Freedom of Navigation Operation (FONOP) “upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognized in international law by challenging India’s excessive maritime claims”. Placing restrictions on the passage of ships through its territorial sea waters and EEZ etc. by any state is described by the USA as “excessive maritime claims” It is apparent from the official statement that the US Navy’s decision not to send a prior notice or seek India’s prior consent was by design and not by default or any oversight. Besides, asserting the freedom of navigation in international waters, the US objective was also to challenge India’s national laws and stated position on the requirement of obtaining prior consent and also to act in defiance of India’s national laws. A serious enough matter. Yet, India’s public response was reasonably guarded, dignified and restrained. According to an official statement by the Foreign Office (April 9), India has conveyed its “concerns regarding this passage through our EEZ to the Government of USA through diplomatic channels.” No further details were made public. Read | India protests US Navy's transit through its exclusive economic zone However, India has countered the US position by stating that the “Government of India’s stated position on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is that the convention does not authorise other states to carry out in the Exclusive Economic Zone and on the continental shelf, military exercises or manoeuvres, in particular, those involving the use of weapons or explosives, without the consent of the coastal state”. The Statement also puts on record that the ship’s movements were being monitored throughout, implying that the Indian Navy was alert and not caught by surprise. The US Navy has repeatedly justified its act as being consistent with “international law”. The UNCLOS 1982 is the only well-established international law on the subject under reference. Interestingly– or rather ironically- the US has not yet ratified UNCLOS, though it claims to adhere to several of its principles. India is a signatory to UNCLOS and has also ratified it. In addition, there is national legislation governing the coastal regions within the sovereignty of India known as the Territorial Waters, Continental Shelf, Exclusive Economic Zone and others under Maritime Zones Act, 1976. Section 4(2) of this act allows foreign warships including submarines and other underwater vehicles to enter or pass through the territorial waters after giving prior notice to the Central Government. They are also required to navigate on the surface and show their flags. India is not the only country that imposes restrictions on the innocent passage of foreign military ships. Even though one of the fundamental principles of UNCLOS is that all ships of all states, including both civilian and military vessels, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea of other states, the fact of the matter is that not all countries agree with this interpretation, particularly where the innocent passage of military vessels is concerned. According to a briefing paper of June 2017 by the Harvard Kennedy School, titled “Freedom of Navigation in South China Sea: A Practical Guide", over 40 states impose restrictions on the innocent passage of military ships, including requiring permission or notice prior to transit under innocent passage. The significance of this episode is not only in the legal aspects of the case. The cause of serious concern is the arrogant manner in which the US Navy has acted deliberately to challenge India’s position and has also gone public without caring for the implications. The USA is known to challenge the “excessive maritime claims” by other states either through diplomatic communications, or bilateral/multilateral discussions or operational assertions. It is not clear as to whether the USA has exhausted the first two options with India before opting for “operational assertion” on April 7. Most probably not. As two sovereign countries, India and the USA have the legitimate right to differ with each other on any given matter. However, the irresponsible and amateurish manner in which the US Navy decided to highlight this difference of opinion and enforce its own position and make it public is in complete contrast with the rapid growth in India-US ties culminating into “comprehensive global strategic partnership”; this is true in particular in defence and security areas. For instance, in 2016, the United States designated India as a Major Defence Partner; in 2018, India was elevated to Strategic Trade Authorization Tier 1 status, which allows India to receive license-free access to a wide range of military and dual-use technologies regulated by the US Department of Commerce. India and US have concluded the four defence and security related foundational agreements namely Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), Communications, Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), the Industrial Security Agreement (ISA) and Basic Exchange and Communication Agreement (BECA). The US’s total defence trade with India has increased from near zero in 2008 to over $20 billion in 2020. The two countries have been participating in regular joint multilateral military exercises such as Malabar and tri-services exercises e.g. Triumph. It is noteworthy that the incident took place in close heels of the Quad Summit (March 13) when both India and USA (along with Australia and Japan) reiterated their commitment to freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region which they would like to see as open, free and inclusive, where the rule of law prevails. Further, in the first outreach by the Biden Administration, the US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin paid a three-day visit to India from March 19, 2021, during which he termed India as a “great partner” and reaffirmed the importance which the USA attaches to India in promoting peace and stability in Indo-Pacific region. The US fully realises the important role which only India can play in support of the US plans to contain China. In the above backdrop, the manner in which the US Navy has conducted itself publically is beyond comprehension but for sure objectionable. It is difficult to digest- as being speculated by some international affairs analysts- that India was targeted with the objective of sending a message to China whose assertive, aggressive and expansionist behaviour in the Indo-Pacific is of concern to USA as well as many other countries in the region, including India. It would be even more absurd to suggest that it was an operation jointly scripted by the USA and India to target a common adversary namely China. The canvas of the Indo-US relations at the moment is extremely broad; this incident is, therefore, unlikely to cause any serious dent. It is important at the same time that the required measures are taken immediately to prevent the recurrence of such or similar incidents. A publicised damage control measure by the US Navy would be a bonus. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: US Navy intrusion in Indian EEZ is beyond comprehension but objectionable

India protested to the United States for a navy vessel conducting a transit through its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) without consent, the foreign ministry said on Friday, in a rare row between the friendly navies of the two countries.

The USS John Paul Jones "asserted navigational rights and freedoms," inside India's EEZ in line with international law by sailing about 130 nautical miles (241 km) west of India's Lakshadweep islands, the U.S. Seventh Fleet said in a statement on Wednesday.

But an Indian foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement that UN rules did not allow such passage without consent.

"The Government of India's stated position on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is that the Convention does not authorise other States to carry out in the Exclusive Economic Zone and on the continental shelf, military exercises or manoeuvres, in particular those involving the use of weapons or explosives, without the consent of the coastal state," the spokesman said.

India's military monitored the movement of the John Paul Jones as it transited from the Persian Gulf towards the Malacca Straits, the foreign ministry said.

The U.S. Navy has previously conducted so-called freedom of navigation sails through Indian waters without consent, with the last one in the fiscal year for 2019, according to an annual U.S. Defense Department report.

However, the former Chief of India's Naval Staff Arun Prakash questioned why the U.S. announced the operation in the waters of an apparent ally.

"For the 7th Fleet to carry out FoN missions in Indian EEZ in violation of our domestic law is bad enough. But publicising it?" he wrote on Twitter on Friday.

The navies of India and the United States carry out large scale exercises each year that now involve Japan and Australia. The four countries have formed an informal security grouping called the Quad to push back against China's expanding power.

India protested to the United States for a navy vessel conducting a transit through its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) without consent, the foreign ministry said on Friday, in a rare row between the friendly navies of the two countries.

India protested to the United States for a navy vessel conducting a transit through its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) without consent, the foreign ministry said on Friday, in a rare row between the friendly navies of the two countries. The USS John Paul Jones "asserted navigational rights and freedoms," inside India's EEZ in line with international law by sailing about 130 nautical miles (241 km) west of India's Lakshadweep islands, the U.S. Seventh Fleet said in a statement on Wednesday. But an Indian foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement that UN rules did not allow such passage without consent. "The Government of India's stated position on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is that the Convention does not authorise other States to carry out in the Exclusive Economic Zone and on the continental shelf, military exercises or manoeuvres, in particular those involving the use of weapons or explosives, without the consent of the coastal state," the spokesman said. India's military monitored the movement of the John Paul Jones as it transited from the Persian Gulf towards the Malacca Straits, the foreign ministry said. The U.S. Navy has previously conducted so-called freedom of navigation sails through Indian waters without consent, with the last one in the fiscal year for 2019, according to an annual U.S. Defense Department report. However, the former Chief of India's Naval Staff Arun Prakash questioned why the U.S. announced the operation in the waters of an apparent ally. "For the 7th Fleet to carry out FoN missions in Indian EEZ in violation of our domestic law is bad enough. But publicising it?" he wrote on Twitter on Friday. The navies of India and the United States carry out large scale exercises each year that now involve Japan and Australia. The four countries have formed an informal security grouping called the Quad to push back against China's expanding power.

India protests US Navy's transit through its exclusive economic zone

In a development that has raised many eyebrows, the US Navy&nbsp;ship USS John Paul Jones, which is part of the US Seventh Fleet, has violated the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of India and Maldives by its "freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”).

Under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)&nbsp;EEZ is an area 200 nautical miles from the coast line of any country.

Under the UNCLOS, countries have sovereign rights such as the right to use resources in that area.

A US Navy release said the ship "asserted navigational rights and freedoms...inside India’s exclusive economic zone, without requesting India’s prior consent, consistent with international law."

The release specifically&nbsp;mentioned that the ship passed 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep Islands and by its freedom of navigation operation, the US upheld the "rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging India’s excessive maritime claims."

Under Indian domestic laws, prior consent for military exercises or maneuvres in the exclusive economic zone or continental shelf is required, and by current action, the US has violated it.

While the US is not violative of international laws under UNCLOS, which doesn't give full rights over EEZ, interestingly Washington is not a signatory to UNCLOS. It is in fact the only permanent member of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) which is a non-party to it.&nbsp;

The development comes even as US climate envoy John Kerry was in India, with the release of US Navy being issued on 7th April.

No reaction has come from India so far, with WION even reaching out to the Pentagon for a reaction. What is perplexing is that US-India ties have been marked by much warmth, both being part of Quad and backers of Indo-Pacific vision.

In fact, days from now, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be participating in the climate virtual summit being hosted by US President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

A similar statement was issued for Maldives, with the US saying, "USS John Paul Jones asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the vicinity of the Republic of the Maldives" by conducting "innocent passage through its territorial sea and normal operations within its exclusive economic zone without requesting prior permission".

The US Navy release claimed, "This freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”) upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging Maldives’ excessive maritime claims."

The Maldives requires prior permission for foreign warships to enter its territorial sea, and prior permission for all foreign vessels to enter its exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;

It is interesting to know that the US Seventh Fleet based out of Japan was the same fleet whose carrier task force had entered the Bay of Bengal during the Liberation War of Bangladesh of 1971.

The aim was to intimidate India and support Pakistan but could not achieve much as the USSR had dispatched its 10th Operative Battle Group of its Pacific Fleet. The fleet had to abort its mission.

In a development that has raised many eyebrows, the US Navy ship USS John Paul Jones, which is part of the US Seventh Fleet, has violated the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of India and Maldives by its "freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”).

In a development that has raised many eyebrows, the US Navy ship USS John Paul Jones, which is part of the US Seventh Fleet, has violated the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of India and Maldives by its "freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”). Under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) EEZ is an area 200 nautical miles from the coast line of any country. Under the UNCLOS, countries have sovereign rights such as the right to use resources in that area. A US Navy release said the ship "asserted navigational rights and freedoms...inside India’s exclusive economic zone, without requesting India’s prior consent, consistent with international law." The release specifically mentioned that the ship passed 130 nautical miles west of the Lakshadweep Islands and by its freedom of navigation operation, the US upheld the "rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging India’s excessive maritime claims." Under Indian domestic laws, prior consent for military exercises or maneuvres in the exclusive economic zone or continental shelf is required, and by current action, the US has violated it. While the US is not violative of international laws under UNCLOS, which doesn't give full rights over EEZ, interestingly Washington is not a signatory to UNCLOS. It is in fact the only permanent member of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) which is a non-party to it. The development comes even as US climate envoy John Kerry was in India, with the release of US Navy being issued on 7th April. No reaction has come from India so far, with WION even reaching out to the Pentagon for a reaction. What is perplexing is that US-India ties have been marked by much warmth, both being part of Quad and backers of Indo-Pacific vision. In fact, days from now, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be participating in the climate virtual summit being hosted by US President Joe Biden. A similar statement was issued for Maldives, with the US saying, "USS John Paul Jones asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the vicinity of the Republic of the Maldives" by conducting "innocent passage through its territorial sea and normal operations within its exclusive economic zone without requesting prior permission". The US Navy release claimed, "This freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”) upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognised in international law by challenging Maldives’ excessive maritime claims." The Maldives requires prior permission for foreign warships to enter its territorial sea, and prior permission for all foreign vessels to enter its exclusive economic zone. It is interesting to know that the US Seventh Fleet based out of Japan was the same fleet whose carrier task force had entered the Bay of Bengal during the Liberation War of Bangladesh of 1971. The aim was to intimidate India and support Pakistan but could not achieve much as the USSR had dispatched its 10th Operative Battle Group of its Pacific Fleet. The fleet had to abort its mission.

US Navy violates exclusive economic zones of India, Maldives

Ministry of Defence on Thursday authorised every member of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coast-gaurds-and-merchant-vessels-together-recued-264-distressed-fisherman-266325"> Coast Guard</a> to "visit, board, search and seize" suspicious vessels within an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and its continental shelf.

"In exercise of powers conferred by sub-section (3) of section 121 of the Coast Guard Act, 1978 (30 of 1978) the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/central-government-involved-in-big-onion-scam-aap-mp-sanjay-singh-265934">Central Government</a> hereby authorize every member of the Coast Guard, constituted under section 4 of the said Act to "visit, board, search and seize" suspicious vessels within an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and its continental shelf," Ministry of Defence said in a notification.

"or any underwater object, involved or suspected to be used or likely to be used in the commission of any offence punishable under any of the central acts within the area of Maritime Zone of India, extending up to Exclusive Economic Zone," it added.

The step has been taken to empower the Coast Guard and enhancing Coastal security.

Ministry of Defence on Thursday authorised every member of the Coast Guard to "visit, board, search and seize" suspicious vessels within an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and its continental shelf.

Ministry of Defence on Thursday authorised every member of the Coast Guard to "visit, board, search and seize" suspicious vessels within an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and its continental shelf. "In exercise of powers conferred by sub-section (3) of section 121 of the Coast Guard Act, 1978 (30 of 1978) the Central Government hereby authorize every member of the Coast Guard, constituted under section 4 of the said Act to "visit, board, search and seize" suspicious vessels within an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and its continental shelf," Ministry of Defence said in a notification. "or any underwater object, involved or suspected to be used or likely to be used in the commission of any offence punishable under any of the central acts within the area of Maritime Zone of India, extending up to Exclusive Economic Zone," it added. The step has been taken to empower the Coast Guard and enhancing Coastal security.

Government authorises Coast Guard members to search and seize suspicious vessels within EEZ

China has again intruded in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone(EEZ), the third major intrusion this year. The intrusion, according to Vietnam government sources began on September 7 and is underway with<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-says-deeply-concerned-about-developments-in-south-china-sea-244942"> Chinese ships</a> along with coast guards still present.&nbsp;

The previous two intrusions had taken place on July 3 and August 13. &nbsp;On July 3, Chinese ship Hauyang Dihi Bahao escorted by Chinese coast guard entered in Hanoi's EEZ but left on August 7, it was followed by the second incursion that started on August 13 and ended on September 2.

Hanoi is mulling a number of actions including excercising legal option against China with the source saying, "can't rule out anything".

The first and second intrusion saw Chinese boats being placed near<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-intrudes-into-vietnams-economic-zone-places-coast-guards-near-ongc-block-244631"> ONGC Videsh Ltd's block</a>. The July 3 intrusion was closest to the ONGC block while the current case that began on September 7 saw Chinese ships near Vietnam's mainland.

Vietnam has raised these intrusions with China through the various diplomatic channel almost forty times. Ten countries have so far reacted to Chinese intrusion in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone which include India, US, France, UK, Germany, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, EU and ASEAN.

The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said: "South China Sea is part of the global commons. &nbsp;India, therefore, has an abiding interest in the peace and stability in the region."

Reiterating that India stands for "freedom of navigation and over-flight, and unimpeded lawful commerce in the international waters in accordance with international laws, notably UNCLOS", the foreign affairs spokesman&nbsp;added that "differences must be resolved peacefully by respecting the legal and diplomatic processes, and without resorting to threat or use of force."

This year has seen the the third major escalation by the Chinese side into Vietnam's EEZ. Earlier in 2011 and 2014, Bejing had intruded into Vietnam's EEZ . In 2011, China had cut Vietnamese cables and in 2014 Beijing had placed a drilling platform which was later withdrawn.

China has again intruded in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone(EEZ), the third major intrusion this year. The intrusion, according to Vietnam government sources began on September 7 and is underway with Chinese ships along with coast guards still present.

China has again intruded in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone(EEZ), the third major intrusion this year. The intrusion, according to Vietnam government sources began on September 7 and is underway with Chinese ships along with coast guards still present. The previous two intrusions had taken place on July 3 and August 13. On July 3, Chinese ship Hauyang Dihi Bahao escorted by Chinese coast guard entered in Hanoi's EEZ but left on August 7, it was followed by the second incursion that started on August 13 and ended on September 2. Hanoi is mulling a number of actions including excercising legal option against China with the source saying, "can't rule out anything". The first and second intrusion saw Chinese boats being placed near ONGC Videsh Ltd's block. The July 3 intrusion was closest to the ONGC block while the current case that began on September 7 saw Chinese ships near Vietnam's mainland. Vietnam has raised these intrusions with China through the various diplomatic channel almost forty times. Ten countries have so far reacted to Chinese intrusion in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone which include India, US, France, UK, Germany, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, EU and ASEAN. The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said: "South China Sea is part of the global commons. India, therefore, has an abiding interest in the peace and stability in the region." Reiterating that India stands for "freedom of navigation and over-flight, and unimpeded lawful commerce in the international waters in accordance with international laws, notably UNCLOS", the foreign affairs spokesman added that "differences must be resolved peacefully by respecting the legal and diplomatic processes, and without resorting to threat or use of force." This year has seen the the third major escalation by the Chinese side into Vietnam's EEZ. Earlier in 2011 and 2014, Bejing had intruded into Vietnam's EEZ . In 2011, China had cut Vietnamese cables and in 2014 Beijing had placed a drilling platform which was later withdrawn.

China intrudes into Vietnam's exclusive economic zone for the third time this year

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