On Wednesday, I argued that the USA must build stronger alliances that allow us to not be the world’s only policeman.
We need stand-up allies.
Last year, Japan’s first female prime minister, Takaichi Sanae, put the world on notice that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would constitute an existential threat to Japan, to which Japan could respond militarily. To which a Chinese diplomat at the time suggested cutting off her head.
Takaichi remains fully capitated.
Just yesterday, she met with Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos to announce the two countries elevated their relationship to Comprehensive Strategic Partners. As former senior DOD official Tony Hu explains, “They’re helpings friends beef up their self-defense capability, which further enhances the deterrence that China is facing.”
Last month, what many have for decades referred to as “pacifist” Japan lifted its post-World War II ban on exporting military weapons. Japan is re-arming not only itself but its allies.
“In an increasingly severe security environment,” Prime Minister Takaichi posted on X, “no single country can now protect its own peace and security alone, and partner countries that support each other in terms of defense equipment are necessary.”
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is none too happy about this, either; it like its victims prone.
“Japan’s recent series of dangerous moves in the military and security fields have exposed its self-proclaimed status as a peaceful nation,” said China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, charging that “Japan is restarting its war machine and exploring war abroad.”
Funny, no countries are frightened by Japan. They’re all scared of China.
“Japan is back!” Takaichi said last year at the White House.
Glad to hear it. The world needs you.
This is Common Sense. I’m Paul Jacob.
Illustration created with Nano Banana
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