Hundreds gathered outside Japan's Prime Minister's Office in Tokyo on November 15, 2025, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi following her contentious statements about potential military intervention in the Taiwan Strait. Protesters held signs reading 'Protect Peace' and 'Diplomacy Over Provocation' as tensions escalate between Tokyo and Beijing.
Controversial Defense Claims
The demonstrations follow Takaichi's November 12 declaration at a Diet session that Japan could invoke collective self-defense if the Chinese mainland 'uses military force against Taiwan.' Chinese authorities have repeatedly condemned the remarks as a violation of the One-China principle, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stating: 'Taiwan has been an inalienable part of China's territory since ancient times.'
Regional Repercussions
Analysts warn the prime minister's stance risks destabilizing East Asian security frameworks. 'This rhetoric directly challenges the delicate status quo maintained since the 1972 Japan-China Joint Communiqué,' said University of Tokyo political scientist Hiroshi Tanaka. Meanwhile, opposition lawmakers have called for an emergency parliamentary review of Japan's defense policy guidelines.
As of November 16, the Prime Minister's Office has not issued any retraction. Market observers note increased volatility in Asian currencies amid growing investor concerns over cross-strait tensions.
