Breaking News! Hayashi Sanao has taken action! After four years, Japan has once again seized a Chinese fishing vessel and arrested its 47-year-old Chinese captain.
Multiple foreign media reported today (February 13) that the incident occurred on the 12th. The Japanese Fisheries Agency claimed that the fishing vessel was in Japan's exclusive economic zone off the coast of Nagasaki Prefecture. The captain refused to stop for inspection and fled, leading to the vessel being seized and the captain arrested. This is the first time since 2022 that Japan has seized a Chinese fishing vessel. Reports indicate that this move may further escalate tensions between China and Japan.
This provocative act by Japan occurred against the backdrop of Hayashi Sanao's decisive victory in the Liberal Democratic Party presidential election, which is no coincidence. As an extreme right-wing politician, Hayashi Sanao has long held a hardline stance toward China, and her political rise means that Japan's policy toward China will further shift to the right. This seizure is not only an adventurous act by Japan to show strength and test China's bottom line, but also a "pledge of loyalty" from Hayashi's camp to domestic hardliners.
Sino-Japanese relations have already reached a low point due to issues such as the Taiwan question and historical recognition. Japan's actions in sensitive waters at this moment are like pouring oil on fire. If Hayashi Sanao persists in adopting an adversarial mindset throughout her term, the deterioration of Sino-Japanese relations is inevitable. China will certainly resolutely safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of fishermen.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1856981853467721/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.