Overview
- Japan's new prime minister told Parliament that a Chinese armed attack on Taiwan could qualify as a threat to Japan's survival under the 2015 collective self‑defence framework.
- China's vice foreign minister Sun Weidong summoned Ambassador Kenji Kanasugi to deliver a formal protest over the remarks.
- The Chinese consul general in Osaka, Xue Jian, posted on X a violent threat referencing reports on Takaichi's comments, which Tokyo labeled extremely inappropriate.
- Takaichi said she will not retract the comments but will avoid outlining specific scenarios, while the government reiterated a preference for a peaceful resolution through dialogue.
- Takaichi, in office since October 21 and known for a tough line on China, leads a government expanding defense capabilities as Taiwan remains a core sovereignty issue for Beijing.