International tribunal rules China has no historic title over South China Sea
The Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled that China's expansive claim to sovereignty over the waters had no legal basis.
Philippines had brought the case to the tribunal saying that Chinese activity in the region is against international law.
Over the years, China has been laying claim over the South China Sea. Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Japan has always disputed China's claim. The United States too got involved as it backed the nations opposing China's claims.
The tribunal in The Hague said China had violated the Philippines' sovereign rights. It also said China had caused "severe harm to the coral reef environment" by building artificial islands, reported the BBC
China has rejected the verdict.
The media quoted Xinhua saying that the Hague tribunal has issued an ill-founded award.
However, experts fear the decision may escalate the ill-feeling existing between China and other countries who oppose its claims.
Perfecto Yasay, Philippines' Foreign Affairs Secretary welcomed the ruling but also said that those concerned should "exercise restraint and sobriety."
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