China’s navy and coast guard operate extensively throughout the South China Sea and regularly stage live firing exercises in the area. Six governments in all claim territory in the South China Sea, although the area where the exercises are being held is not considered a particular hotspot. BEIJING — China said Monday it is closing off a part of the South China Sea for military exercises this week, days after the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled against Beijing’s claim to ownership of virtually the entire strategic waterway. It has responded by asserting that islands in the South China Sea are “China’s inherent territory” and says it could declare an air defense identification zone over the waters if it felt threatened. China rejected the tribunal’s ruling in the case initiated by the Philippines and refused to take part in the arbitration.

Source: Manila Bulletin July 18, 2016 06:22 UTC