Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi faces mounting domestic criticism over recent comments linking Taiwan's status to Japan's security framework, with scholars warning such rhetoric risks destabilizing Asia and violating Japan's pacifist constitution. During a November 7 parliamentary session, Takaichi suggested treating Taiwan scenarios under Japan's 'survival-threatening situation' defense clause – a stance experts call unprecedented and dangerous.
Scholars Sound Alarm on Constitutional Breach
Okinawa University researcher Yuki Izumikawa condemned the remarks as fundamentally contradicting Japan's post-war principles: 'Invoking collective self-defense for Taiwan matters would constitute aggression under international law. Japan would be actively stepping into war rather than being dragged in.' He emphasized Tokyo's obligation under the 1972 Japan-China Joint Communiqué to respect Beijing's position on Taiwan being an inalienable part of China.
Media Backlash Over Security Policy Shift
The Shakai Shimpo newspaper editorialized that 'Takaichi's very premiership threatens Japan's survival,' criticizing accelerated defense spending and relaxed arms export rules. With her coalition holding less than half of parliamentary seats, analysts suggest the Taiwan comments aim to consolidate right-wing support through anti-China posturing.
Academic Consensus Urges Diplomatic Restraint
Yamaguchi University's Atsushi Koketsu noted the administration's 'political calculation' in hyping regional tensions: 'Building mutual trust with China remains crucial for Japan's economic and security interests.' Nagoya University's Noriyuki Kawamura called for immediate retraction of the remarks, stating they breach five decades of diplomatic precedent.
As military activities intensify around Okinawa prefecture – host to 70% of U.S. forces in Japan – local communities fear becoming frontline casualties in any cross-strait conflict. With Japan's defense budget set to double by 2027, regional observers warn Takaichi's stance could accelerate an arms race in East Asia.
