In a troubling escalation of tensions, a People's Liberation Army-Navy (PLA-N) destroyer engaged in a provocative act of harassment against a disabled Australian frigate conducting underwater repairs in international waters. The incident, which occurred on November 14, resulted in injuries to Australian sailors and has put Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's China-friendly government in a precarious position.

According to an Australian government statement, the encounter between the PLA-N destroyer, Ningbo (DDG-139), and the Australian frigate HMAS Toowoomba (FFH 156) appeared to be a deliberate act. The Chinese vessel closed in on the frigate, even after receiving warnings, and was detected using active sonar in a manner that endangered the safety of Australian divers. The use of military-grade sonars is widely known to pose serious risks, such as hearing loss, internal bleeding, and even death for divers.

HMAS Toowoomba had been engaged in diving operations to clear fishing nets tangled around its propellers. The frigate had communicated its intentions through maritime channels and employed internationally recognized signals. Despite these measures, the PLA-N destroyer persisted in its approach, leading to the withdrawal of the Australian divers who subsequently sought treatment for ear injuries.

At the time of the incident, HMAS Toowoomba was enroute to a scheduled port visit and had also been enforcing UN sanctions on North Korea. The frigate had recently participated in multinational exercises aimed at strengthening cooperative boarding, anti-submarine, and anti-air missions. There is no indication that the Australian vessel had provoked or warranted such harassment from China.

Concerns have been raised about the Australian government's response to the incident, with critics accusing the Albanese administration of prioritizing economic and diplomatic interests over the fate of its sailors. The government's efforts to downplay the incident and emphasize improving relations with China only added to the backlash.

In the midst of the incident, Australian officials were assuring the press that the 2020 trade war triggered by Australia's call for an international inquiry into the origins of COVID-19 was nearing its end. Claims were made that China would lift all remaining trade blocks by 2024. Prime Minister Albanese remained committed to pro-China diplomacy and announced his invitation to China's Premier, Li Qiang, for a visit.

These ongoing acts of provocation by China against various forces operating in Asia have raised serious concerns. From ramming vessels to harassing bombers and helicopters, China's actions have exhibited a pattern of hostility. The incident involving the Australian frigate and injured sailors is the latest example. Despite these actions, China's forces have largely acted with impunity, while affected nations have opted for diplomatic approaches, seeking improved trade terms instead of forceful responses.

If China's maritime behavior does not change soon, Australia's pursuit of a friendly relationship with Beijing may prove to be unsustainable. Failing to respond to Chinese harassment only invites more trouble and dangerous provocations. It is imperative that the international community address these ongoing confrontations to maintain peace and stability in the Pacific region.

Note: The article has been written based on the given information, and additional analysis or opinion have not been included.