Tensions in the South China Sea have reached a peak in recent years, significantly affecting relations between countries in the Asia-Pacific region. This sea is rich in natural resources, including oil, gas and fisheries, making it a major strategic conflict point. Some countries claiming part of this region include China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei. One of the main factors fueling tensions is China’s expansive territorial claims, known as the “nine-dash line.” This claim indicates that China has rights to almost all of the waters of the South China Sea. As a result, neighboring countries that also claim rights to the region oppose China’s policies, leading to increased tensions. China’s removal and construction of infrastructure on artificial islands, such as building military bases, is of international concern. This move has sparked protests from neighboring countries and also sparked concern from the United States, which claims the right to maintain freedom of navigation in this strategic shipping lane. The US has increased its military presence through military exercises and sending warships, leading China to accuse the US of being a provocateur. Conflict has also been seen in incidents between Chinese coast guard ships and other countries. Several incidents resulted in clashes, adding to tensions. Mass media reported numerous incidents of border violations recorded by monitoring devices, underscoring the potential dangers of too close a proximity between rival military powers. Economics is an important part of this dynamic, with Southeast Asian countries seeking to explore their respective resources in the disputed region. China, while asserting its territorial claims, is also trying to establish economic ties with the countries involved in order to garner support. The importance of the South China Sea is not only limited to resources, but is also linked to global trade routes. About 30% of world trade passes through these waters, making them a crucial strategic route. Prolonged tensions could disrupt economic stability throughout the world. Geopolitical competition between China and the US further increases the risk of confrontation in the area. Strategic alliances formed with countries such as Japan, Australia and India face challenges from China’s growing ambitions. A diplomatic approach through dialogue is still expected to ease these tensions, although the results are uncertain. Efforts to resolve disputes through regional forums such as ASEAN—where countries are expected to negotiate guidelines of behavior—still face many obstacles. Deep tensions and the complexity of conflicting claims make comprehensive resolution a major challenge. Ultimately, tensions in the South China Sea are a reflection of increasingly complex international relations, in which large and small powers interact in ways that affect the security and stability of the region, which will continue to be in the world’s spotlight.