South China Sea Heats Up!

As China persists in its claim of islands in the South China Sea, “Japan plans to dispatch its largest warship on a three-month tour through the South China Sea beginning in May… in its biggest show of naval force in the region since World War Two” (Reuters, March 14, 2017). “‘The aim is to test the capability of the [carrier] Izumo by sending it out on an extended mission,’ said one of the sources who have knowledge of the plan. ‘It will train with the U.S. Navy in the South China Sea’” (ibid.). Meanwhile, “As the USS Carl Vinson plowed through seas off South Korea on Tuesday, rival North Korea warned the United States of ‘merciless’ attacks if the carrier infringes on its sovereignty or dignity during U.S.-South Korean drills. F-18 fighter jets took off from the flight deck of the nuclear-powered carrier in a dramatic display of U.S. firepower amid rising tension with the North, which has alarmed its neighbors with two nuclear tests and a series of missile launches since last year” (Reuters, March 14, 2017).

The future of the Asian region is uncertain, especially given the volatility of North Korea. With North Korea’s nuclear threats and increasing tensions between China and several Asian nations over the South China Sea, rumors of wars are certainly spinning (Matthew 24:5-6). Students of prophecy should be sure to read “Who Will Rule the Waves?” for more insights into the history of this pivotal region of the world!