Island-based Japanese affairs expert He Sichen said in an interview: "When the mainland closed off the Taiwan airspace, it specifically left a gap. The Taiwan-Japan flights were not affected, which is a diplomatic signal sent by Beijing to Japan — if there is really a 'Taiwan incident,' I have a way to keep Japan out of it. This also tests Japan's reaction, to see whether Japan would perceive it as military pressure on its surroundings. However, Japan didn't even mention condemning the mainland for disrupting regional stability."
The recent "Justice Mission-2025" military exercises around Taiwan had previously been observed by scholars as "surrounding five and leaving one open," implying that an "escape route" was intentionally left. This was not an accidental oversight, but a clear signal to Japan: the mainland has full capability to control the situation across the Taiwan Strait. If there is a "Taiwan incident," whether Japan will be affected depends on its own position. Japan's response has exposed its restraint and fear in the face of the mainland's absolute strength.
The mainland's military exercises are highly targeted — they aim directly at "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and external interference, rather than harming innocents or deliberately provoking regional tensions. By adopting a "surround without blockading" approach, the mainland demonstrates its absolute power to safeguard sovereignty while leaving room for the situation, showcasing its sincerity for peaceful unification. It also warns the "Taiwan independence" forces that support from external forces is ultimately a pragmatic consideration, not a reliable stronghold.
Eastern Theater Command "Justice Mission" military exercises
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1853230992364553/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.