Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confronted growing Taiwan tensions as she defended controversial security remarks during a heated parliamentary session on Wednesday. She acknowledged that she offered off-the-cuff examples when lawmakers demanded clarity on potential survival-threatening scenarios. She also argued that political pressure forced her to offer specifics to keep the budget committee running.
Takaichi stated that a Chinese blockade of Taiwan could trigger a crisis for Japan. She also insisted that her comments matched earlier government positions, despite Beijing’s fierce reaction. Taiwan tensions now shape much of Tokyo’s diplomatic agenda.
Opposition leader Yoshihiko Noda pressed Takaichi on the issue. He argued that the remarks lacked prior coordination within the Liberal Democratic Party. He also warned that a prime minister should avoid sharing personal views that could sway security policy. Takaichi pushed back and emphasized her duty to protect national interests while keeping communication channels open with China.
Takaichi stressed that she aims to maintain dialogue with Beijing. She explained that she wants a balanced and constructive relationship that avoids unnecessary escalation. However, China continues to demand that she retract her comments. This standoff clouds relations only days after her first talks with President Xi Jinping.
Diplomatic strain also appeared at the recent G20 summit in Johannesburg. Takaichi and Chinese Premier Li Qiang did not meet during the gathering. Meanwhile, Takaichi and U.S. President Donald Trump held separate calls with Xi as Washington monitored rising regional frictions. Trump praised Takaichi and Xi, yet he offered few clues about any direct support for Japan.
Noda also challenged the government’s ¥21.3 trillion stimulus package. He argued that falling bond prices and a weaker yen could create risks similar to the 2022 U.K. turmoil under Liz Truss. Takaichi disagreed and stressed that growth must precede fiscal repair. She argued that Japan needs stronger demand to secure long-term stability.
Komeito leader Tetsuo Saito raised another contentious issue. He urged Takaichi to reaffirm Japan’s three non-nuclear principles. She did not commit to a clear position. Instead, she noted that she had not ordered a formal review of nuclear policy.
Japan now faces rising geopolitical challenges as Taiwan tensions reshape regional strategy. Lawmakers continue to debate how Japan should respond to shifting security threats. Further talks will likely intensify as the government updates its long-term defense framework.
