Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticizes Chinese military for 'unsafe and unacceptable' conduct as a Chinese jet endangers an Australian helicopter in the Yellow Sea.

China counters, accusing the Australian Navy helicopter of close-in reconnaissance during a naval drill and urges Australia to respect its sovereignty and security.

The confrontation took place amidst Australian operations to enforce U.N. sanctions on North Korea, with Australia lodging a formal complaint to China.

China's aggressive maneuver, involving flares that prompted evasive action from the Australian helicopter, is described by Australia as unprofessional.

An Australian naval expert challenges the likelihood of Australia intentionally provoking China, suggesting the Australian activity was not espionage.

The incident escalates the already tense relations between Australia and China.