US 'using islands dispute to muddy waters'

Washington's bid to take advantage will damage ties, analysts say

Three Chinese officials, in the space of 24 hours, slammed US criticism of Beijing's decision to set up a military garrison in the South China Sea, a rare gesture analysts said showcases Beijing's determined stance on the territorial issue.

The US, trying to take advantage of the worsening South China Sea situation, may damage ties between the world's two largest economies, experts said.