Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has drawn sharp criticism across East Asia this month after suggesting a potential Taiwan contingency could justify military mobilization under Japan's collective self-defense framework. The remarks, made during a November 7 parliamentary hearing, came days after the 2025 APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting and have reignited debates about regional security.
Takaichi asserted that any military action involving the Chinese mainland in the Taiwan Strait might constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan – a legal designation enabling expanded military response. Despite repeated calls from opposition lawmakers and former leaders, she maintained this position during a November 10 follow-up address.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian condemned the statements as "provocative," emphasizing Beijing's opposition to external interference in Taiwan affairs. The Taiwan region also saw bipartisan criticism, with former leader Ma Ying-jeou stressing cross-strait issues must be resolved peacefully by "people on both sides of the strait."
Domestic opposition in Japan has been equally vocal. Constitutional Democratic Party lawmaker Hiroshi Ogushi warned such rhetoric could lead to "judgment equivalent to entering a war," while former Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama reiterated Japan's responsibility to avoid meddling in China's internal affairs.
Analysts note the controversy highlights growing concerns about historical revisionism in Japanese politics. As regional powers navigate post-APEC economic cooperation, Takaichi's comments underscore the delicate balance between security posturing and diplomatic stability in East Asia.
