The Latest Breaking News from the South China Sea

A senior lawmaker from Australia recently visited Taiwan and discussed the potential for security cooperation between the two countries. The visit comes at a time of heightened tensions in the region, with China's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea and its ongoing efforts to isolate Taiwan diplomatically.

China conducted "combat patrols" Sunday in the South China Sea, its army said, the same day the Philippines, the United States, Japan and Australia held their first joint drills in the disputed waters.

China conducts patrols in the South China Sea in response to planned U.S.-led exercises, amid escalating tensions and territorial disputes.

Beijing’s naval and air patrols in the disputed waterway take place as several US allies conduct first joint drills.