Japan’s rightward shift puts it on a collision course with China

South China Morning PostEN 2 min read 100% complete by Terry SuMarch 1, 2026 at 01:30 PM
Japan’s rightward shift puts it on a collision course with China

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Following a landslide victory in the February 8th House of Representatives election, Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi have solidified their power. This victory, granting the LDP a parliamentary majority of over two-thirds, signals Japan's increasing resistance to Chinese dominance in East Asia. Takaichi's hardened stance against China, particularly regarding Taiwan, suggests potential military intervention alongside the US, should China attempt a forceful takeover. This shift occurs within the context of a changing US foreign policy, where Washington is encouraging its allies to take on a greater role in countering China's influence, reminiscent of the US approach between the World Wars. The author underestimated the speed with which Takaichi garnered support and the implications of Japan's rightward shift.

Keywords

china 100% japan 100% us 80% geopolitics 70% east asia 70% sanae takaichi 60% election 60% liberal democratic party 50% military intervention 40%

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South China Morning Post
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