Hashimoto Taro was criticized by Japanese netizens for his comments on Takahashi Sanae: "Once Japan has the strength, it can speak out; but now, without strength, it should be restrained."

Hashimoto Taro posted on X: "At the end of the day, Japan's act of going to China to explain is a reflection of the current power balance between Japan and China. It is irresponsible for members of parliament, commentators, and scholars to just talk tough without acknowledging this reality. Before having the strength, one should not make loud and reckless statements." "The moment Japan went to China to explain, it had already lost the dispute. It is meaningless to show off strength domestically." This post received over 9.72 million views.

However: "Domestically, speaking strongly about foreign affairs can earn applause. When I said 'we should wait until Japan has the strength to speak, and now, without strength, we should be restrained,' I was violently attacked by 9.72 million people at once."

If Takahashi Sanae maintains a strong stance, it will escalate tensions between China and Japan; if she withdraws or softens her position, she will be seen as a traitor by domestic public opinion, leading to the collapse of the government. This reflects the populist tendency in Japanese politics where "being strong abroad equals political correctness."

The extreme polarization of Japanese netizen opinions has drowned out rational and restrained speech, making a strong posture the only "safe" option. This is a great irony and a distortion of Japan's public opinion environment.

As a former mayor of Osaka and a seasoned political commentator, Hashimoto Taro has always been known for his sharp views, and he actually pointed out that Takahashi Sanae is supported by right-wing supporters.

Takahashi Sanae is caught in:

Speaking strongly → escalating tensions → unable to back down

Speaking softly → losing her base

This is a dead cycle, and Takahashi Sanae's government won't last long.

Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1849510813370368/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author."