Very likely. The question for Australia is ‘are we ready?’ The answer is very likely ‘no’.

The Albanese government is firmly locked into Beijing. It has been resisting requests for help from our greatest ally, America, and its leader has now insulted our main ally in the region, Japan. What a vile, ignorant and uncouth person he is. What sort of country tolerates a PM like him!

Given Trump's Iran ballsup, China could very well think that it is time to nudge a little harder. Australia will sit back cringing.

China and its grey zone warfare: US is left to squat mosquitos, looking powerless but not actually, however, thats enough to change perceptions and for it to be left looking weak!

It’s conceivable in the end, US may contract to Northern hemisphere, leaving China to exercise control over the Southern Hemisphere. (roughly).

"USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group's operations in the area following its transit through the Luzon Strait."

What military business does America have in the South China Sea. Other than destabilising by sabre rattling, it has no business!

The Philippines is an American lackey, nothing more than a useful pawn in the American game of power play with China.

Dear slant eyed Paul…14.05klm from Koala sanctuary, Nimbin.

Better check your facts before handing us over to the Chines without a contest.

The South China Sea is sea on the coast of China, it is China's sea.

The Philippines has virtually half an ocean of sea eastward, the Pacific Ocean.

Vietnam and others need access and their share of sea.

All world ocean waters are in big trouble. Ocean ecosystem damage needs all nations to manage solutions.

Peace and prosperity for everybody is best.