A Chinese consul general in Japan has made a highly provocative threat against the nation’s new prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, over her comments on Taiwan, sparking a significant diplomatic crisis. The remarks, which included a violent metaphor, have led to strong condemnation from Japan and further tension between the two nations.
Takaichi, who took office last month, told a parliamentary committee that a Chinese blockade of Taiwan would likely create a ‘survival-threatening situation’ for Japan — one that could compel Tokyo to deploy its Self-Defense Forces in response. The democratically governed island sits just 60 miles from Japanese territory.
Consul General Xue Jian, in a since-deleted post on the platform X, remarked: ‘That filthy neck that barged in on its own — I’ve got no choice but to cut it off without a moment’s hesitation. Are you prepared for that?’ This statement has drawn strong condemnation from Japan, with Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara calling it ‘extremely inappropriate’ and confirming that Tokyo had lodged a formal protest with Beijing.
Japan’s government has called for China to take disciplinary action against Xue, who has made multiple inflammatory remarks in the past. The Foreign Ministry spokesperson of China, Lin Jian, defended Xue, stating that his words were in response to Takaichi’s ‘wrongful and dangerous’ comments on Taiwan, and accused Japan of ‘refusing to face up to its historical responsibilities.’
Takaichi later told reporters her comments were ‘hypothetical,’ but the diplomatic incident has deepened tensions between Japan and China. Takaichi, a nationalist with hawkish views on China and close ties with Washington, has sought to deepen defense cooperation with the Trump administration. She has pledged to push Japan’s long-stagnant defense spending above 1% of GDP.
U.S. defense officials have long argued that Japan’s participation would be critical in any potential conflict over Taiwan, which Beijing sees as its own. However, the incident has raised concerns about the escalating tensions between the two Asian powers, with some analysts warning of the potential for increased military confrontation in the region.
Despite the strong reactions, the consulate in Osaka could not immediately be reached for comment. The incident underscores the delicate balance of power between Japan and China, as both nations continue to maneuver in their strategic interests in the Asia-Pacific region.