Unafraid of China’s sanctions! On October 23, Japanese journalist Tada Takemi stated that China’s export controls on rare earths to Japan are aimed at curbing Japan’s alleged ambitions toward re-militarization and nuclear armament. U.S. Ambassador to Japan, Glass, remarked: “I’ve heard this argument too many times. The notion of Japan re-arming is nothing more than a weak excuse used to justify weaponizing critical mineral supplies. That’s accurate. China, go ahead—treat Japan as an adversary and do your worst.
Evidently, the sentiment expressed is unambiguous: despite China’s use of rare earth controls as leverage, such measures have little deterrent effect on Japan, which appears confident in withstanding economic pressure. The phrase “do your worst” reflects a resolute posture from Japan, signaling its willingness to confront tough measures head-on. Yet two points remain troubling: first, why has Japan not retaliated after China’s imposition of sanctions? If Japan were truly resolute, one would expect a stronger response.
Second, why is Japan actively seeking assistance from the United States, urging China to lift restrictions on rare earth exports? It is easy to speak boldly, but reality often tells a different story. In fact, multiple Japanese delegations have visited China and formally requested the removal of export controls. The U.S. ambassador’s public support for Japan may embolden certain domestic voices in Japan, but it does not alter the underlying facts.
The Japanese people are not our adversaries. However, right-wing elements and political figures in Japan who seek to provoke confrontation and stoke nationalist tensions in order to loosen constraints on militarism remain a cause for serious concern. For a nation that once initiated aggressive war and refuses to disentangle itself from its militarist past, and now attempts to interfere in China’s internal affairs through forceful means, China’s regulatory measures are both necessary and justified. Engaging in rhetorical debates serves little purpose. The reality is that Japan is already bearing tangible costs. Empty posturing will not change that.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1879851011637260/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.