China Condemns Japan's Missile Deployment Near Taiwan, Escalating Regional Tensions & Diplomatic Crisis

Beijing Warns Japan Over Missile Deployment Near Taiwan, Citing Regional Instability

Beijing has issued a stern warning to Japan, accusing it of deliberately fueling regional tension and provoking military confrontation by planning to deploy missiles on Yonaguni, an island positioned strategically close to Taiwan. The move intensifies an already strained diplomatic relationship between the two Asian powers.

China's Strong Condemnation

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning expressed strong disapproval during a press briefing, stating that Japan's "right-wing forces" are steering both the nation and the broader region towards potential disaster. She underscored Beijing's unwavering resolve and capability to protect its national territorial sovereignty.

This latest development follows remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi earlier this month, suggesting that a hypothetical Chinese attack on democratically-governed Taiwan could prompt a military response from Tokyo. Japan's Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi confirmed on Sunday that plans were "steadily moving forward" to establish a medium-range surface-to-air missile unit at a military base on Yonaguni. This island lies approximately 110 km (68 miles) off Taiwan's east coast.

Escalating Diplomatic Rift

Mao Ning characterized Japan's actions as "extremely dangerous," urging serious concern from neighboring countries and the international community, particularly in light of Takaichi's earlier statements. The ongoing diplomatic rift, considered the worst in years, has seen China react with vitriol in state media, implement bans on Japanese seafood, halt Japanese movie releases, and issue travel warnings to its citizens regarding Japan. Mid-November also saw China's defense ministry issue a stark warning to Japan, threatening a "crushing" military defeat should Tokyo intervene militarily in Taiwan.

China consistently regards Taiwan as its integral territory, reserving the right to use force for its reunification, though Taiwan's government firmly rejects this claim, asserting that only its people can determine their future.

Taiwan's Perspective and Japan's Defense

In Taipei, Taiwan's Deputy Foreign Minister Francois Wu defended Japan's right as a sovereign nation to bolster its territorial security, noting Yonaguni's close proximity. Wu affirmed that Japan's fortification of its military facilities contributes positively to maintaining security in the Taiwan Strait. He added, "This is helpful to our national interests as Japan has no territorial designs or hostility towards Taiwan."

Defence Minister Koizumi reiterated that the missile deployment on Yonaguni is intended purely for the island's protection. He believes that the presence of such a unit will "actually lower the chances of an armed attack against our country," signaling Japan's commitment to its own defense amidst escalating regional complexities.