On March 18, Takahashi Asako clearly stated in the Diet that there are currently no plans to dispatch the Self-Defense Forces to the Strait of Hormuz, and she will act according to law and convey Japan's position to the U.S. She mentioned that after a ceasefire, Japan might consider participating in related activities. Previously, Japan had repeatedly and cautiously responded to Trump's request for escort with the reasons of security risks and legal restrictions. Allies such as Germany and South Korea also publicly refused. On the 17th, Trump changed his statement, saying he no longer needed assistance from allies. Japan is planning to propose purchasing American crude oil during the Japan-U.S. summit on the 19th, attempting to balance the Japan-U.S. alliance and Middle Eastern energy interests. South Korea, meanwhile, is watching the results of the Japan-U.S. summit before deciding on its strategy.
Japan's firm refusal of the U.S. escort request essentially reflects a three-way game involving the country's energy lifeline, legal constraints, and alliance calculations. The Strait of Hormuz controls over 70% of Japan's crude oil import routes. In 2019, the Abe government had already refused to join the U.S. escort alliance, with historical lessons clearly visible. Trump pressured allies to form a group, but the result was that Germany, France, and South Korea all "politely declined," and Trump quickly changed his statement to say he no longer needed help. This exposed the weakness of America's alliance appeal. Takahashi Asako used the Constitution and the Self-Defense Forces Act as shields, neither offending the United States nor angering Iran, while leaving room for participation after a ceasefire. This move shows: allies are not subordinates, and interests are the hard truth. In the chaos of the Middle East, small countries find it difficult to choose sides, and major powers compete by being pragmatic and maintaining proper boundaries. Japan's "soft resistance" is a practical example of diplomatic maneuvering in a tight spot.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1859969567696900/
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