Taiwan-Japan security issues have come under renewed scrutiny following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent remarks about potential military intervention. Specifically, Takaichi suggested that if China used force against Taiwan, Japan could face a “survival-threatening situation,” which might justify mobilizing its armed forces. Consequently, her statements triggered strong reactions from former Taiwanese leaders and legislators.
Former Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou called Takaichi’s statements “reckless” and emphasized that cross-strait affairs should remain free from outside intervention. Furthermore, he warned that Taiwan-Japan security must be approached with caution, and leaders should carefully consider both their words and actions regarding the Taiwan Strait. Ma also noted that even hinting at Japan’s possible military involvement departs from the caution shown by previous prime ministers.
In addition, Ma suggested that Takaichi may not have coordinated her statements with Washington, which Japan must consult before undertaking armed action. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence that both sides of the Taiwan Strait would prioritize wisdom to achieve a peaceful resolution. He added that maintaining stability is essential to avoid a survival-threatening scenario.
Separately, former KMT chairwoman Hung Hsiu-chu criticized Takaichi for overreaching. She stressed that Taiwan is no longer a Japanese colony and argued that cross-strait issues remain internal matters originating from the Chinese Civil War. Moreover, Hung emphasized that foreign politicians should refrain from commenting on Taiwan’s affairs.
Conversely, Democratic Progressive Party legislator Chen Kuan-ting countered Ma’s stance, stating it largely reflected Beijing’s perspective. Chen argued that China has not renounced the use of force and that Taiwan’s security cannot depend on Chinese reactions. He highlighted ongoing Chinese military harassment, including gray zone operations and frequent crossings of the Taiwan Strait median line. He further warned that ignoring these pressures risks international misunderstandings.
Chen added that Japan’s security concerns are based on its own national realities and regional assessments in the Indo-Pacific, not on Ma’s warnings about stirring tensions. He also noted that Taiwan and Japan maintain strong cooperation in democracy, humanitarian aid, economics, and security. Consequently, he argued that this collaboration is necessary for democratic nations facing authoritarian expansion, not a return to militarism.
Overall, Taiwan-Japan security discussions underscore the delicate balance between regional stability, democratic collaboration, and China’s growing influence. Therefore, experts expect these debates to remain central in shaping regional policy and diplomatic strategies.
