On April 27th, YCAPS held a joint webinar with Pacific Forum and Maritimes Program to discuss the rule of law and grayzone activities in the East and South China Seas. Professor Yurika Ishii of the National Defense Academy of Japan talked about the laws and interpretations surrounding the use of force and weapons by the Japan Coast Guard and the SDF, as compared with that of the Chinese Coast Guard. Following Professor Ishii, Commander Jonathan Odom of the Marshall Center for Security Studies analyzed China's changing narrative of its gray zone activities and China's strategic approach in dealing with opposing countries. The audience was then invited to participate in an active discussion session with the speakers, focusing mainly on concerns related to China. Both speakers concluded their remarks by commenting on whether it is necessary to increase collaboration among the US, Japan and their allies.