Looks like those steps have just turned into a giant leap. Is war closer than we think? Unfortunately I think Trump will play that card to hang on to power for a bit longer. The war will be fought far enough from US soil for the general public to not fear collateral damage.
On 16th July, Pompeo made a war cry over human rights and SCS. With the language used, you just knew it was the start of something.
Just now the US have ordered the Chinese consulate to close in Houston, Texas. Given them 72 hours to vacate. Has that happened before?
More hacking claims from our government, apparently Chinese hackers compromising systems worldwide "for commercial and personal" gain. "Commercial and personal" gain is hardly enough to start a war over?
In the same article, it mentions that Marisse and the defence minister will be flying over to meet Pompeo next week "at the urging of Washington" (I hope they isolate when they return).
One S.E Asian country already caught in the cross fire. Malaysia came out this week and said they won't be taking either side in the SCS dispute, and would prefer a peaceful resolution. China came out praising them. Bad move. Two days later Malaysia cops US sanction on their glove making business. Australia being "urged" to follow. Apparently "unrelated"....
Hard to be optimistic these days. S.E Asia does not deserve war at their door steps (IMHO).