China's Maritime Militia: A Growing Threat in the South China Sea

China's maritime militia ships were spotted anchored inside Philippine-held territory in the South China Sea, a move described as possibly unprecedented. The presence of at least 11 Chinese militia ships within Second Thomas Shoal, a contested area, comes after standoffs between Philippine and Chinese vessels. The Philippines claims that China's territorial assertions violate international maritime law, while China argues that the Philippine boats were trespassing. The situation remains tense, with China potentially testing American resolve, and experts believe Beijing aims to take control of the shoal without directly assaulting the still-commissioned Philippine Navy ship stationed there.