A Chinese fighter jet intercepted a Japanese surveillance aircraft over the East China Sea, escalating tensions amid ongoing territorial disputes and prompting Tokyo to lodge a diplomatic protest.

South Korea on July 9 repatriated six North Korean nationals who had been rescued earlier this year from drifting boats in the East and West Seas. The group—all men in their 30s and 40s with families in North Korea—had repeatedly expressed their desire to return home,

South Korea on Wednesday repatriated six North Koreans across the maritime border in the East Sea, months after they drifted into southern waters and were rescued.

The Chinese foreign minister said the ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague was “orchestrated and manipulated by external powers” who wanted to “destabilise the South China Sea for their own benefit”.

China said it conducted oil and gas exploration activities in the East China Sea in "undisputed waters" under its jurisdiction.

Turbo sazae, Jeju Island, East Sea, climate change, marine life, ocean currents, genetics, sea warming, migration, biodiversity.

Military leaders are working to enforce a "one-theatre" concept in both the East and South China seas, the Philippines' defence minister said on Monday, adding that the Southeast Asian country faces threats in disputed waters that are similar to Japan's.

South Korea sent six North Koreans back across their sea border, months after they drifted south in wooden boats in March and May.

As crew members are rescued from a ship sunk by Yemeni Houthis, the US says some of the missing have been taken hostage. In Germany, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called on Israel to help Palestinians in need.