FOREWORDTensions in the East China Sea are often overshadowed by those in the South China Sea, but they are a potent flashpoint for conflict between China and Japan and pose a unique challenge for the United States, which is treaty-bound to assist Japan in an armed conflict. While it is understandable that the South China Sea would receive more public attentionthe SouthChina Sea is a major international waterway with territorial disputes involving seven nationsthe East China