Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has drawn sharp rebukes from Beijing through a series of contentious statements about Taiwan since taking office in late October 2025. The diplomatic row escalated this month as Chinese authorities issued multiple warnings against what they call "blatant interference" in China's internal affairs.
The controversy began on November 7 when Takaichi suggested at a Diet session that potential military actions in the Taiwan Strait could justify Japanese military intervention under its collective self-defense framework. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian responded on November 10, stating: "Taiwan has been an inalienable part of Chinese territory since ancient times. No external force has the right to intervene in cross-strait matters."
Intensifying its response, China's State Council Taiwan Affairs Office warned on November 12 that any challenge to Beijing's core interests would meet "resolute countermeasures." Defense Ministry spokesperson Jiang Bin followed on November 14 with a stark military warning: "Any Japanese attempt to interfere by force will result in a crushing defeat against the People's Liberation Army."
The diplomatic confrontation reached new heights on November 16 as China Coast Guard vessels conducted patrols near the Diaoyu Dao, demonstrating Beijing's commitment to safeguarding territorial sovereignty. Analysts suggest these developments reflect growing regional tensions as Japan's new administration tests established diplomatic boundaries.
