Chinese forces seized two Philippine rubber boats delivering supplies to a military outpost at the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, resulting in injuries to some Filipino navy personnel, according to Philippine security officials.

Following the incident, the United States reiterated its defense commitment to treaty ally Philippines.

The confrontation occurred at the shoal, where a small Philippine navy contingent is stationed aboard the grounded warship BRP Sierra Madre, under close Chinese surveillance, the Associated Press reported.

The event has heightened fears of escalating territorial disputes in the South China Sea, potentially leading to a larger conflict involving the U.S. and China.

Both countries blamed each other for the hostilities, with the Philippine task force condemning “dangerous maneuvers, including ramming and towing,” that disrupted the supply mission.

Written by B.C. Begley