What naval rights does the US assert in the South China Sea?

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The US Asserts Navigational Rights and Freedoms in the South China Sea

The United States asserts its navigational rights and freedoms in the South China Sea, particularly in areas near the disputed Spratly Islands. These actions are conducted in accordance with international law, specifically challenging what the U.S. Navy deems unlawful restrictions on passage imposed by claimant states. The U.S. Navy maintains that any unilateral requirement for authorization or advance notification for such passages is invalid.
Upholding International Law in Navigational Operations

The U.S. Navy destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88) recently conducted a passage in the South China Sea near the Spratly Islands. This operation was explicitly carried out in adherence to international law, underscoring the U.S. commitment to upholding established maritime norms and principles. The navy's statement highlighted that such exercises are standard procedure for asserting these rights.
Challenging Unilateral Restrictions on Passage

This specific operation by the USS Preble serves to contest the restrictions on "innocent passage" that have been unilaterally imposed by China, Taiwan, and Vietnam. These countries also lay claims to the Spratly Islands and have sought to regulate maritime transit in the region. The U.S. position is that these claims attempt to unlawfully limit freedom of navigation.
Rejection of Authorization or Notification Requirements

The U.S. Navy has explicitly stated its stance against the imposition of any authorization or advance notification requirements for naval vessels transiting through these waters. The navy considers such unilateral demands to be unlawful under the framework of international law. This assertion reinforces the U.S. view that freedom of navigation must not be subject to the approval of individual states asserting territorial claims.

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What naval rights does the US assert in the South China Sea?

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