Overview
- Takaichi told lawmakers that a Chinese blockade of Taiwan and use of force against U.S. forces could meet Japan’s survival-threat standard under the 2015 security law.
- Tokyo has reiterated its one‑China policy yet declined to withdraw the comment, with Takaichi saying she will refrain from commenting on hypothetical contingencies.
- China has escalated a propaganda campaign featuring state media mockery and personal attacks, including a reported beheading threat by the Osaka consul‑general.
- Beijing has discouraged travel to Japan and reimposed a ban on seafood imports, applying economic pressure that analysts say remains calibrated.
- Commentary points to stalled diplomacy and cites media reports of Xi’s call with President Trump and a separate call urging Takaichi to dial down the dispute, fueling concerns about a prolonged rift.