A serious diplomatic conflict has flared between Japan and China after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan could create a “survival-threatening” situation for Japan. Her remarks implied Japan could activate its Self-Defense Forces in response—an unprecedented public stance signaling a more assertive regional security posture.
In retaliation, Xue Jian, China’s Consul General in Osaka, issued an inflammatory statement online threatening Takaichi’s life. “That filthy neck that barged in on its own—I’ve got no choice but to cut it off without a moment’s hesitation,” he wrote in a post that was later deleted. The comments sparked outrage in Tokyo and were immediately condemned by Japan’s government.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara labeled the threat “extremely inappropriate” and confirmed Japan has formally protested to Beijing. He also requested that China take disciplinary measures against the diplomat involved.
Beijing has yet to indicate whether any action will be taken against Xue. Instead, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs doubled down, calling Takaichi’s Taiwan-related comments “wrongful and dangerous,” accusing Japan of violating the “One China” principle and interfering in internal Chinese affairs.
The escalation comes at a time of growing regional instability, with the Taiwan Strait increasingly viewed as a geopolitical flashpoint. Japan’s strategic alignment with the United States and its shift toward a more proactive defense policy has drawn harsh criticism from Beijing, which views such moves as containment efforts.
The incident highlights the rising risks of diplomatic fallout as Asian powers adopt hardened positions over Taiwan and broader regional security.
