China joined Russia and Iran in joint naval drills near the Strait of Hormuz, deploying the guided-missile destroyer Urumqi and a supply ship. The exercises included maritime search-and-rescue and live-fire drills in waters critical to global oil shipments. (AL-MONITOR)
The Philippines rebuked China’s embassy in Manila for advertising local job openings tied to Beijing’s claims in the South China Sea. The foreign ministry said the postings, which referenced work linked to disputed waters, were inappropriate amid ongoing maritime tensions. (REUTERS)