China Urges U.S. to Restrain Japan as Tensions Rise Over Taiwan Remarks

China has called on the United States to rein in Japan and prevent what it describes as any attempt to “revive militarism,” escalating a diplomatic dispute triggered by recent comments from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about Taiwan. In an editorial published by the Communist Party’s People’s Daily, under the pen name “Zhong Sheng,” Beijing criticized Tokyo for what it sees as dangerous rhetoric that could destabilize the regional security landscape.

The dispute intensified after Takaichi stated in parliament on November 7 that Japan could consider a military response if China were to launch an attack on Taiwan. The remarks drew a sharp reaction from Beijing, which claims Taiwan as its territory and has consistently warned foreign governments against intervening in the issue. According to the editorial, Takaichi’s comments have heightened “international concern and vigilance” about Japan’s “strategic intentions.”

The timing of diplomatic exchanges has fueled speculation among analysts. Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday, followed by Trump’s call with Takaichi a day later. Observers believe Beijing may have sought Washington’s help in cooling tensions. Two Japanese government sources told Reuters that Trump urged Takaichi to avoid further escalation with China during their conversation. While China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning declined to confirm whether Xi requested U.S. intervention, the People’s Daily suggested that both nations share a responsibility to maintain the post–World War Two order, emphasizing their shared history fighting “fascism and militarism.”

The editorial also noted that Trump had conveyed an understanding of Taiwan’s significance to China, though the former U.S. president made no public mention of Taiwan in his Truth Social post summarizing the call.

Tensions further rose after Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi reaffirmed plans to deploy a medium-range surface-to-air missile unit on Yonaguni Island, located roughly 110 kilometers east of Taiwan. Beijing swiftly condemned the move, calling it a provocation that undermines regional stability.