China has been taking exception to the US’s long-running freedom of navigation operations in recent years. But as a rising maritime power, it is in China’s best interests to adhere to an enduring and stable order at sea.

Beneath the surface of the political gamesmanship are bedrock principles of jurisprudence that were overlooked or trampled by the Arbitral Tribunal.

The United States has moved increasingly from neutrality to direct intervention, which threatens stable peace. Saber-rattling and ill-advised words by U.S. leaders only makes things worse.

The influence of the United States can be seen in virtually every move of countries in the region that have a stake. China needs to promote its role as an anchor of peace and stability.

Cooperative inspections by China and Vietnam have been effective in some ways. But they have not resolved basic problems, including overfishing. With the latest agreement expiring in June, it’s time to think in a holistic way.

The South China Sea has seen an uptick in maritime showdown in recent months. The upshot is a dangerous, multifaceted Cold War just when the world needs maximum cooperation against COVID-19.

Territorial dispute over Paracel Islands in the South China Sea should be solved by China and Vietnam, which have overlapping claims. So why is the United States weighing in?

The South China Sea has become even more hotly contested as Malaysia has begun to explore energy resources in areas previously claimed by Vietnam and China. The now-three-way naval standoff throws into uncertainty the future of the stability in the region.

Peace and stability in the South China Sea hinge on U.S. behavior. It should seek peaceful means to settle maritime disputes rather than playing by its own skewed interpretation of the rules.

With Vietnam assuming the ASEAN chairmanship in 2020, and the US entering a contentious presidential election amid growing anti-China sentiment in Washington, Malaysia is betting on growing efforts to constrain Beijing’s maritime ambitions.