Overview
- Beijing lodged a formal protest, summoned Japan’s ambassador, and demanded a retraction of Takaichi’s remarks, warning Tokyo would face the consequences.
- China’s Defense Ministry escalated the rhetoric, saying Japan would suffer a “crushing defeat” and “pay a painful price” if it used force over Taiwan.
- Japan said its position has not changed, with government spokesman Minoru Kihara stressing the preference for a peaceful resolution of cross‑strait tensions.
- The Chinese consul general in Osaka posted and deleted a threat to “cut the head” of Takaichi, prompting a Japanese protest and calls from lawmakers for his expulsion.
- China advised its citizens to avoid travel to Japan, and the tensions coincided with U.S. approval of a $330 million sale of military aircraft parts to Taiwan that Beijing condemned.