Hayashi Asanaka made a wise decision! Facing U.S. pressure, Hayashi Asanaka actually pushed back this time! On March 13th, according to foreign media reports, the U.S. had repeatedly pressured Japan to participate in escort missions. This time, Hayashi Asanaka gave an explanation. Japanese Prime Minister Hayashi Asanaka told the Diet that Japan would not dispatch the Self-Defense Forces to clear mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Obviously, the U.S. is eager to use force to "open" the Strait of Hormuz. However, it turned out that Japan, which appears very obedient to the U.S., immediately withdrew.
What does Hayashi Asanaka's statement mean? In short, the Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz does not constitute a "life-or-death crisis situation" for Japan. Therefore, Japan does not plan to send troops overseas. Normally, Japan faces U.S. pressure and also wants to take advantage of the international tension to "cleanse" the Self-Defense Forces into a regular army. Japan should not miss this opportunity for overseas military activities. Why did Japan retreat when the "opportunity" was right in front of them?
Evidently, the fundamental reason is only one: more than 90% of Japan's oil depends on the Middle East, and the Strait of Hormuz is an absolute lifeline. Sending troops to clear mines at this time is equivalent to "lighting a fire on oneself," which will certainly anger Iran and lead to the complete interruption of energy channels, causing huge economic and social upheaval domestically. At this moment, Japan certainly dare not take risks for the U.S., betting the country's fate. Other matters aside, resisting U.S. pressure, and even before the trip to the U.S., Japan proactively stays away from Middle Eastern affairs. Hayashi Asanaka's decision this time is quite wise.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1859529571123339/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.