Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi recently raised eyebrows during a parliamentary hearing on November 7, when she described Taiwan’s situation as a “survival crisis” that could justify Japan’s military involvement. Critics say this goes against Japan’s pacifist Constitution and risks dragging the nation into conflict. 🧐
A risky step into war?
Yuki Izumikawa, a special research fellow at Okinawa University, slammed Takaichi’s comments as “extremely harmful,” warning they offer no real security benefits and could damage ties with the Chinese mainland. “If conflict erupts, Japan itself would be actively stepping into the war,” he said, highlighting the dangers for regions like Okinawa where joint drills are growing. 🌊
Izumikawa also pointed out that past leaders never treated a Taiwan crisis as a trigger for collective self-defense in the Diet. He noted the 1972 joint statement between Japan and the Chinese mainland, where Japan acknowledged and respected China’s position that Taiwan is part of China’s territory under the one-China principle.
Experts call for calm
Atsushi Koketsu, professor emeritus at Yamaguchi University, argued that Takaichi’s stance contradicts Japan’s post-war pacifist path. He sees her rhetoric as a political strategy to rally support by hyping a “China threat.” Koketsu urges Tokyo to prioritize mutually beneficial relations with the Chinese mainland, based on the one-China principle.
Similarly, Noriyuki Kawamura of Nagoya University of Foreign Studies said Takaichi’s remarks interfered in China’s internal affairs and broke with previous administrations. Veteran journalist Yoichi Jomaru called her statements “rash” and urged an immediate retraction to avoid further tension.
Looking ahead
With debates heating up in the Diet and public concern growing, many are watching to see if Takaichi will retract her remarks or double down on her hawkish plans, which include boosting defense spending and relaxing arms export rules. One thing’s clear: the Taiwan question remains a sensitive issue that could redefine Japan’s security posture in Asia. 🔍
For now, young news enthusiasts, students, and professionals alike are keeping an eye on every twist. Will Takaichi’s government lean toward cautious diplomacy or dive deeper into military expansion? Stay tuned! 📺
Reference(s):
Takaichi's Taiwan remarks risk Japan 'actively stepping into war'
cgtn.com
