Japan and China trade barbs after PM Takaichi says an attack on Taiwan would be ‘an existential threat’ World Nov 10, 2025 1:55 PM EST

TOKYO (AP) — Japan was involved in a war of words with China on Monday after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said a Chinese attack on Taiwan could constitute “a survival-threatening situation” for Japan requiring the use of force.

Takaichi, who was elected as the country’s first female prime minister last month, said Friday that Chinese use of force around Taiwan would qualify as “an existential threat”.

Her comment sparked sharp criticisms from Beijing over the weekend.

“We have no choice but cut off that dirty neck that has been lunged at us without hesitation. Are you ready?” Chinese Consul General Xue Jian said in a message posted on X, which was la

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