A in Japan issued a threat to decapitate the nation’s new prime minister concerning her comments defending Taiwan, provoking outrage in Tokyo and highlighting the escalating tension between the two regional powers.
Prime Minister , who assumed office last month, informed a parliamentary committee on Friday that a Chinese blockade of Taiwan would likely constitute a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan, one that might compel Tokyo to deploy its Self-Defense Forces in response. The democratically governed island is situated merely 60 miles from Japanese territory.
Xue Jian, the Chinese consul general in Osaka, responded sharply in an X post, since removed, on Sunday, stating: “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?”
Japan’s government denounced the statement, as Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara described it as “extremely inappropriate” and affirmed that Tokyo had filed a formal protest with Beijing. Kihara noted that Xue had previously made “multiple” inflammatory comments and called for China to undertake disciplinary measures.
China, conversely, seemed to defend the diplomat. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian informed reporters on Monday that Xue’s remarks were a reaction to Takaichi’s “wrongful and dangerous” comments, which he claimed misrepresented China’s stance on Taiwan. Lin accused Japan of “refusing to face up to its historical responsibilities” and cautioned Tokyo against interfering in “internal Chinese affairs.”
Takaichi subsequently informed reporters that her comments were “hypothetical” and indicated she would avoid making similar statements in the future.
This incident risks further straining the already tense relations between Asia’s two largest economies. Takaichi, a nationalist recognized for her hawkish perspective on China and strong connections with Washington, has aimed to enhance defense cooperation with the Trump administration. She has pledged to push above 1% of GDP and to assume a more assertive role in maintaining stability across the Taiwan Strait.
U.S. defense officials have consistently contended that Japan’s involvement would be crucial in any potential conflict concerning Taiwan, an island Beijing considers its own.
Japan’s chief cabinet secretary Minoru Kihara stated that although the post’s intent was “not entirely clear,” Xue’s remarks were “extremely inappropriate.” He mentioned that Xue had issued several inappropriate statements and that Japan has requested Beijing to intervene.
Despite the post being deleted, China supported Xue. Foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated during a news conference on Monday that Xue’s words were a reaction to Takaichi’s “wrongful and dangerous” comments regarding Taiwan, urging Tokyo to “take a hard look at its historical responsibilities.”
Takaichi declared on Monday that her comments were “hypothetical” and that she would refrain from repeating them.
The consulate in Osaka was not immediately available for comment.