Consider the following statements regarding Scarborough Shoal: 1. It is a triangular, mostly submerged atoll/coral reef feature located in the South China Sea. 2. It lies within the 200-nautical-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Philippines. 3. It has been a central flashpoint of maritime territorial disputes associated with China's Nine-Dash Line claims. Which of the statements given above are correct? |ForumIAS

[A] 1 and 2 only

[B] 2 and 3 only

[C] 1 and 3 only

[D] 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

Notes:

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: Scarborough Shoal is a high-tide feature consisting of a triangular chain of reefs and rocks surrounding a central lagoon.
Statement 2 is correct: It is located on the west coast of Luzon, placing it well within the 200-nautical-mile EEZ of the Philippines.
Statement 3 is correct: China seized effective control of the shoal in 2012, making it a major legal and naval tension point under international law (UNCLOS).