Experts across Asia are sounding the alarm as Japan's leadership makes provocative statements about the Taiwan region, reviving fears of militarism. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi recently claimed the Chinese mainland's actions toward Taiwan could threaten Japan's survival—a dangerous narrative echoing pre-WWII rhetoric.
🔍 Why it matters: Takaichi's remarks suggest Japan may abandon its post-war pacifist constitution, which renounced military aggression. “This isn’t just about Taiwan—it’s about rewriting history,” warns Xiang Haoyu of the China Institute of International Studies.
📜 Historical ghosts: Experts drew chilling parallels to 1931, when Japan used “survival threats” to justify invading northeast China. Similar justifications fueled Pearl Harbor and wider Asian aggression.
🇯🇵 Domestic dissent: Even former Japanese officials like Magosaki Ukeru criticize Takaichi, stressing Taiwan is China’s internal affair. “Japan must honor its commitments,” he insists.
🌏 Regional stakes: With Japan accelerating military expansion this year, Su Xiaohui notes: “Dismantling defense-only policies threatens every neighbor.” The international community watches closely as 2025 becomes a pivotal year for Asian security.
