China conducts patrols in South China Sea amid simmering tensions

China's military is set to carry out regular patrols with its naval and air forces in the South China Sea, starting from Wednesday to Thursday, as announced by the military's Southern Theater Command. The move came amid ongoing tensions in the region related to disputed territories. The Southern Theater Command stated that troops in the area would maintain a state of high alert at all times, emphasizing their commitment to defending national sovereignty, security, and maritime rights. The primary objective of these patrols is to discourage activities that could disrupt the South China Sea and potentially create "hot spots," as…