Japan PM says US alliance would collapse if Tokyo ignored Taiwan crisis

Liberal Democratic Party President and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi speaks during the Panel Discussion by the Leaders of 7 Parties at the Japan National Press Club (JNPC) in Tokyo, Japan, Jan 26, 2026. - Photo: Reuters

TOKYO: Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the alliance between Tokyo and Washington would collapse if Japan failed to act in the event of an attack on the US military during a conflict in Taiwan.

Detailing the Japanese response to a hypothetical Taiwan crisis, Takaichi appeared to dial back on her remarks in November that suggested Tokyo could intervene militarily during a potential attack on the island.