China's Foreign Ministry issued a stern rebuke to Japan on Friday following a naval transit through the Taiwan Strait by a Japanese Self-Defense Forces vessel, emphasizing that Taiwan remains an 'insurmountable red line' in bilateral relations. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated the Chinese military had taken lawful measures to monitor the passage, calling the action a 'deliberate provocation' that undermines regional stability.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's controversial remarks about the Taiwan region in late 2025. Guo warned that recent military activities reveal 'dangerous intentions' among some Japanese factions to interfere in cross-strait affairs, stressing that Taiwan's status forms the 'political foundation' of China-Japan relations.
Security concerns escalated further with reports of two recent threats against Chinese diplomatic facilities in Tokyo. An April 2026 knife intrusion at the Chinese embassy by an active-duty SDF officer was followed days later by a bomb threat from an individual claiming SDF reserve status. Guo linked these incidents to Japan's 'aggressive security posture' and inadequate historical education, urging Tokyo to conduct thorough investigations.
Analysts note the developments coincide with Japan's ongoing security policy shifts, which Beijing views as destabilizing. The Foreign Ministry has demanded Japan 'correct its mistakes' and avoid further provocations, while calling for improved protection of Chinese nationals overseas.
