Japan to Deploy Missiles to Island Near Taiwan: Minister

Geopolitical Tensions - Japan-China tensions are escalating over Taiwan, with China warning against Japanese military intervention [1][3] - China submitted a letter to the UN vowing resolute self-defense if Japan intervenes militarily, while Japan dismisses China's claims as baseless [3] - Japan's defense minister visited Yonaguni Island, near Taiwan, planning missile deployment, a move potentially provoking China [5][6] - China cites an "enemy status clause" to defend itself without UN approval, a claim Japan deems obsolete [4] Diplomatic Stance - Japan is calling for dialogue but dismissing China's claims regarding its position on Taiwan [3] - Prime Minister Takaichi's statement on Taiwan reflects existing Japanese security policy since 2015, not a new stance [8] - Takaichi stated Japan would consider its defense needs if China uses force against Taiwan, but did not explicitly say Japan would militarily intervene [11][12] - The Chinese government requested a retraction of Takaichi's statement, but the chief cabinet secretary refused [10] Domestic Impact - Takaichi's government, despite being a minority, is unlikely to compromise on the Taiwan issue [9] - Public opinion in Japan is showing a positive rebound in approval for Takaichi's handling of the situation, despite initial hesitancy about the use of force [15] - The diplomatic spat may be boosting Takaichi's approval ratings, with polls showing 72% (Yomiuri) and 65% (Mainichi) approval [13] International Relations - Japan aims to defend the existing rules-based order and views China as challenging it [19] - The US-Japan alliance remains strong, with cooperation on economic security priorities like rare earth minerals and next-generation technology [23][24]