A senior Japanese opposition figure has issued a scathing rebuke of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent comments on cross-strait relations, sparking renewed debate about Japan's adherence to its postwar peace principles. Hiroji Yamashiro of the Social Democratic Party warned that Takaichi's suggestions of potential military involvement in the Taiwan Strait 'seriously undermine' bilateral relations with China.
Yamashiro emphasized Japan's longstanding recognition of the one-China principle, referencing the 1972 Joint Communique that established the People's Republic of China as China's sole legal government. 'For Takaichi to publicly make such impossible claims is truly outrageous,' he told China Media Group, stressing that Taiwan remains an integral part of China's territory.
The political veteran expressed particular concern about historical revisionism, criticizing Japan's education system for omitting details of wartime aggression. 'As a nation with a Peace Constitution, suggesting military intervention in another country's internal affairs constitutes pure aggression,' Yamashiro stated, warning of potential consequences for regional stability.
Analysts note the controversy comes amid heightened sensitivity in Asia-Pacific diplomacy, with multiple governments reaffirming their commitment to peaceful conflict resolution. The Social Democratic Party has called for immediate clarification of Japan's official position to prevent further escalation.
