China and Japan trade accusations amid rising tension over Taiwan

A new diplomatic rift emerged between China and Japan after a war of words over Taiwan intensified this week. On Friday, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that any Chinese military operation targeting Taiwan — including a blockade — could threaten Japan’s national survival and justify exercising its right to collective self-defense.

Beijing condemns Tokyo’s statement

China reacted sharply to Takaichi’s remarks, calling them a “wrongful and dangerous attempt” to separate Taiwan from China. Beijing reiterated its long-standing position that Taiwan is an inseparable part of its territory and warned Tokyo against crossing “red lines” regarding the Taiwan question. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said Japan should “take a hard look at its historical responsibilities” and adhere to the one-China principle.

Controversy over Chinese diplomat’s post

The situation worsened when Xue Jian, China’s consul general in Osaka, shared a post on the social media platform X, referencing Takaichi’s statement and writing that one must “cut off a dirty neck without hesitation.” The post triggered outrage in Tokyo. Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara announced that his government had lodged a formal protest, labeling the comment “extremely inappropriate” for a diplomatic representative.

Tokyo maintains its stance

In response to Beijing’s criticism, Takaichi said on Monday she had no intention of retracting her earlier comments, asserting they were made “under the assumption of a worst-case scenario.” She added that her position aligns with Japan’s conventional government policy, though she emphasized she would not frame her remarks as an official government stance.

Growing regional friction

The exchange marks another flare-up in East Asia’s sensitive security environment, as China increases military activity around Taiwan and Japan takes a firmer defense posture alongside its ally, the United States. Analysts say such tensions risk further straining regional stability, while Türkiye continues to call for dialogue and peaceful resolution in the Taiwan Strait.