Tokyo: A new diplomatic row has erupted between Japan and China after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made remarks suggesting that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger Japan’s military involvement under its self-defense laws.
During a recent parliamentary session, Takaichi said Japan could consider a “survival threatening situation” if China attempted to take control of Taiwan by force. Such a situation, she explained, could justify the deployment of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. The comments were quickly criticized by Beijing, which said the remarks violated the “one China” principle and interfered in China’s internal affairs.
China’s response escalated after its Consul General in Osaka, Xue Jian, posted a social media message saying that “the dirty head that sticks itself in must be cut off,” in an apparent reference to Takaichi’s statement. The post was later deleted, but Japan condemned it as “extremely inappropriate” and lodged an official protest.
Tokyo’s Chief Cabinet Secretary, Minoru Kihara, reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to the 1972 Japan China Joint Communiqué, which recognizes the government in Beijing as China’s sole legal authority. He also emphasized that Japan continues to support the peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues through dialogue.
Takaichi later clarified that her comments were hypothetical and based on a worst-case scenario, but she stopped short of withdrawing them. She added that Japan must consider all possible threats to national security given Taiwan’s geographic closeness to Japan and its importance to regional stability.
The incident has added strain to relations between Asia’s two largest economies, which had been trying to ease tensions in recent months. Analysts say the controversy highlights Japan’s growing willingness to speak more directly about Taiwan and its security concerns, reflecting a shift in Tokyo’s defense posture.
Observers note that the episode may have broader implications for regional security. The Taiwan Strait remains a flashpoint in Asia, and Japan’s statements could influence future dialogue among allies such as the United States and Australia, as well as neighboring countries in Southeast Asia.
As both Tokyo and Beijing exchange strong words, diplomatic efforts are expected to continue in an attempt to prevent the situation from worsening. However, the exchange has once again underscored how sensitive and volatile the Taiwan issue remains for the region.