Yesterday (Nov 15, 2025), hundreds of Japanese citizens gathered outside the Prime Minister's Office in Tokyo 🇯🇵, demanding PM Sanae Takaichi step down over her recent remarks on the Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF). Protesters chanted slogans like:
- Retract your statement and apologize
- Takaichi, step down
- A leader who cannot handle diplomacy is unfit to be prime minister
Last week at a Diet meeting, Takaichi suggested the JSDF could exercise the right of collective self-defense — meaning defending allies under attack — if the Chinese mainland uses military force against Taiwan in the Taiwan Strait. This stirred strong reactions from both Tokyo and the Chinese mainland, with formal démarches lodged and calls for a public apology.
The rally reflects growing public concern about diplomatic tensions and Japan's security role in a shifting regional landscape 🔄. For many young South and Southeast Asian professionals, this protest highlights how remarks by world leaders can ripple across borders, affecting cross-strait ties and regional stability.
As the debate continues, all eyes are on whether PM Takaichi will retract her statement or face further pressure at home. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving story.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
