Japan and China engaged in a heated diplomatic exchange after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said a Chinese attack on Taiwan could pose “a survival-threatening situation” for Japan, potentially justifying the use of force.

Beijing sharply criticized the remarks, with Chinese Consul General Xue Jian posting a threatening message on X (later deleted) and calling for retractions of similar comments by past Japanese leaders.

Japan protested the message, emphasizing its one-China policy while stressing the importance of Taiwan Strait stability for regional and international security.

The spat highlights potential tensions in Japan-China relations under Takaichi, who has pursued a stronger military posture and met Taiwan’s representative shortly after meeting Xi Jinping, NBC News has reported.

Both sides have exchanged formal complaints, with China accusing Japan of interfering in its internal affairs and Japan seeking to clarify its official stance.