China has accused the United States of being the primary source of instability in the South China Sea, following Washington’s condemnation of Beijing’s alleged use of water cannons against Philippine vessels. The statement was made by Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian during a regular press briefing on Wednesday. Lin emphasized that any threats or provocations in the region would fail, asserting China’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights. The US Department of State had earlier criticized China’s actions as ‘coercive and unlawful,’ claiming they undermine regional peace and violate commitments to peaceful dispute resolution. The US also reaffirmed that the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty applies to any attacks on Philippine forces in the South China Sea. Lin countered by stating that the Philippines was the initial provocateur, violating China’s sovereignty and creating risks at sea. He criticized the US for ignoring these facts and attempting to threaten China by invoking the Mutual Defense Treaty. Lin concluded that the US actions reveal its intention to provoke confrontation and create chaos in the region, making it the biggest source of risk to regional stability.