Unease in Japan after Trump cites Pearl Harbor to defend Iran war

Donald Trump's joke referencing the Pearl Harbor attack during a White House press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has been met with shock and disapproval in Japan. The incident occurred on Thursday as a response to a question about the US's surprise attack on Iran. Trump's comments were perceived as insensitive given the historical significance of Pearl Harbor and Japan's alliance with the US. Takaichi's restrained reaction to the joke has been praised. The meeting took place amidst tensions in US-Japan relations due to the ongoing conflict involving the US and Iran, and Japan's reluctance to participate militarily in the Strait of Hormuz.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi informed U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday of her strong desire to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Takaichi seeks to discuss the past abductions of Japanese nationals by North Korea, a long-standing point of contention between the two countries. She stated that Trump expressed full support for her efforts to find an immediate resolution to the issue and they exchanged ideas on how a meeting with Kim could be arranged. Japan officially recognizes 17 citizens as having been abducted by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s, with suspicions of more disappearances. While five abductees were returned in 2002, no further progress has been made since.

Late-night hosts Jimmy Kimmel and Seth Meyers addressed Donald Trump's recent comments during a meeting with Japan's prime minister. Kimmel criticized Trump's joke about Pearl Harbor, suggesting his knowledge of the event comes from the Ben Affleck movie. Kimmel also highlighted a newly unredacted email contradicting Trump's claims about Jeffrey Epstein's relationship with Mar-a-Lago. Meyers also mocked Trump's Pearl Harbor comment, pointing out the historical inaccuracy. Both hosts also discussed the impact of the government shutdown on TSA agents, with Kimmel noting reports of agents selling blood to pay bills. The discussions occurred on their respective late-night shows following Trump's meeting with the Japanese prime minister.

During a meeting in the Oval Office, US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi discussed the president's decision not to inform allies about a potential attack on Iran. When questioned by Takaichi, Trump referenced Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II. He stated, "Who knows better about surprise than Japan?" The meeting took place amidst ongoing tensions and conflict in the Middle East. The article does not provide further context or explanation for Trump's statement.

US President Donald Trump met with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House Oval Office, marking a high-stakes summit that appeared to get off to a positive start. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations and pledged cooperation on trade, global energy market stability, and regional security. Trump expressed support for Japan's role in addressing these issues, stating that they are "stepping up to the plate." Takaichi did not comment on the US-Israeli plans to attack Iran, which were kept secret from her. The meeting took place amid concerns about Trump's behavior towards other allies who have declined to help him clear the Strait of Hormuz. The two leaders agreed to work together and discussed future meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met with former U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday, March 18, 2026, in Washington D.C. The meeting's original purpose was to allow Takaichi to speak with Trump before his planned trip to China. However, the meeting's focus shifted due to the war in Iran and Trump's unsuccessful call for international assistance, including from Japan, to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has publicly expressed his displeasure with allies, including Japan, for declining his request to help safeguard the waterway critical for oil and gas transport. The meeting may now involve Trump voicing his concerns directly to Takaichi.

During a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in the Oval Office, Donald Trump responded to a reporter's question about informing allies before a potential attack on Iran by referencing Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor. Trump joked about Japan's history of surprise attacks, asking why they didn't inform him about Pearl Harbor beforehand. The remark, made in response to a question about informing allies before military action, evoked the 1941 attack that led the U.S. into World War II. While some supporters praised the comment, others criticized it as inappropriate. This incident follows a previous awkward exchange where Trump made a similar comment about D-Day.

Following strikes on Gulf energy facilities amidst the US-Israeli conflict with Iran in late March 2026, several European nations and Japan issued a joint statement expressing readiness to stabilize energy markets and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The statement, from leaders of Britain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Japan, urged a moratorium on attacks on civilian infrastructure. This announcement follows the International Energy Agency's authorization of a strategic petroleum reserve release to counter rising global energy prices after Iran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz in late February. While the specific efforts were not detailed, the nations pledged to work with producing nations to increase output. The statement was released before a White House meeting between President Trump and Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi, where energy security was expected to be discussed.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has blamed the US and Israel for disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil shipments, amid an ongoing war that began on February 28th. Araghchi called on the UN and other nations to condemn the "military aggression" and demand an end to it. The conflict has caused a surge in oil prices, with Brent crude rising over 40%. While Iran claims the strait is open to allies, a senior IRGC advisor previously threatened to close it. The US has called for a naval coalition to secure the waterway, but France has refused to participate. Several nations are reportedly negotiating with Iran for safe passage.

Israel claims to have killed Ali Larijani, Iran's national security chief, in an overnight airstrike, along with Gholamreza Soleimani, commander of the Basij paramilitary force. The alleged strike occurred during the third week of the US-Israeli war on Iran. If confirmed, Larijani's death would be a significant blow to the Iranian regime, removing a key figure in its political and security establishment. Larijani was recently appointed secretary of the supreme national security council and played a diplomatic role before the war. Israel's defense minister stated that the strike also eliminated other senior Basij figures. Iran has not yet commented on the claims.

On March 17, 2026, a drone attack sparked a fire at the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone in the UAE, part of sustained attacks by Iran on Gulf countries. This follows another fire at the same oil hub on Saturday due to intercepted drone debris. Abu Dhabi also reported falling debris from a intercepted ballistic missile, resulting in one death. The UAE's air defenses are actively repelling incoming missiles and drones from Iran, causing airspace closures. Iran justifies these attacks by citing the presence of US military bases in Gulf countries after joint US-Israeli air attacks on Tehran began on February 28, but civilian infrastructure has been hit. The UAE, which normalized relations with Israel in 2020, has faced the most attacks, with over 1,800 missiles and drones fired by Iran.

Following rebuffs from NATO members regarding his request for a multinational naval force to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Donald Trump stated the U.S. does not need NATO. Trump expressed disappointment that allies like the UK, Japan, Australia, and South Korea declined to send warships. His comments come amid an escalating crisis in the Middle East, where Iran has attacked cargo vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting oil shipments and raising global oil prices above $100 per barrel. The strait is a critical passageway for approximately a fifth of the world's oil supply. Trump criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, expressing disappointment in the UK's stance.

Following attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz amid conflict between the US/Israel and Iran, Donald Trump called on allies, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK, to send ships to secure the vital waterway. Despite this request, Trump stated that most NATO allies informed the US they did not want to get involved. The UK is in discussions with the US, European, and Gulf partners to develop a plan, but no decisions have been made. Germany stated the conflict is not a NATO matter and questioned the value of European frigates when the US Navy is present. France has expressed readiness to participate in an escort mission for container ships and tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.

Kharg Island, Iran's primary oil export hub, is a potential target for the U.S. due to its strategic importance to Iran's oil revenue. An attack or seizure of the island would significantly impair Iran's ability to profit from its oil resources. However, such action carries substantial risks. Specifically, disrupting Iranian oil exports could lead to a significant increase in global energy prices. The potential action is considered in the context of ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran.

On the 17th day of the US-Israel war on Iran, Israel launched new strikes on Tehran, prompting Iranian responses to "hostile targets." Escalations continued in the Gulf region, with Dubai airport temporarily suspending flights due to a drone incident and fire nearby; Saudi Arabia also reported intercepting drones. Attacks were also reported in Iraq and Lebanon. US President Trump accused Iran of using AI to spread disinformation, while Iran's Foreign Minister denied seeking truce talks. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed its weapons cache remains largely intact, and authorities arrested 18 people accused of working for a news channel with alleged ties to Israel. As of Sunday, the conflict has resulted in 1,444 deaths and 18,551 injuries in Iran.

Amidst a Middle East crisis, Iran's foreign minister accuses Israel of "ecocide" due to strikes on Tehran fuel depots, citing health and environmental consequences. Donald Trump is pressuring allies to join a coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil transit route effectively closed due to the conflict. Japan and Australia have declined to send warships, while the UK considers deploying minesweeping drones. Trump aims to unveil the coalition list this week, but responses from countries like the UK, Japan, and Australia have been muted. The Strait's closure is causing global energy supply concerns.

In March 2026, tensions escalated in the Middle East, raising concerns about a potential global energy crisis. Iran maintained control over oil shipping routes and a drone strike hit a fuel tank near Dubai International Airport, causing temporary flight suspensions. The Israeli military conducted strikes against Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut, Lebanon, and a U.S.-Israeli strike hit a police station in Tehran, Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump demanded that several countries dependent on Middle Eastern oil form a coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Protests against Trump's demand occurred near the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, South Korea.

The upcoming meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and US President Donald Trump is complicated by escalating Middle East tensions. Trump is expected to press Takaichi to send Japanese warships to the Strait of Hormuz following recent attacks on vessels, aiming to demonstrate allied support against Iran. However, Japan's constitution restricts its participation in overseas military operations, placing Takaichi in a difficult position. The summit at the White House this week is intended to deepen economic cooperation and shipbuilding collaboration, but the Hormuz issue threatens to overshadow these goals. Analysts believe Trump will seek a visible commitment from Japan, while Takaichi likely hopes to avoid making any military pledges.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump stated that multiple countries were joining a US-led naval coalition to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Israel war on Iran. Trump did not identify the specific countries, stating an official announcement would follow. He had previously called on nations including China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and NATO members to participate, citing their reliance on oil transported through the Strait. However, several countries, including Australia, Japan, Poland, Sweden, Spain and Germany, have rejected military involvement. South Korea and the UK are reportedly reviewing the situation, with the UK considering offering mine-hunting drones.

Several European countries, including Germany, Italy, and the UK, have rejected Donald Trump's call for military assistance to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump requested NATO members send warships to protect commercial vessels and ensure oil shipments through the vital waterway, which has been effectively closed by Iran amidst a wider regional conflict. European leaders emphasized diplomatic solutions, with Germany explicitly ruling out military participation, stating "This is not our war." While the UK is working on a plan to reopen the strait, they are not looking to be drawn into a wider war. Other countries, including Australia, France and Japan have also stated they have no plans to send warships.

The conflict in Iran and potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz highlights vulnerabilities in global energy and maritime sectors, particularly for Asian economies. The Strait is a critical route for oil and liquefied natural gas, and disruptions lead to increased shipping costs and reduced capacity as companies reroute vessels. Countries like Japan and South Korea, heavily reliant on energy imports through the Strait, are more exposed than China, which has diversified its energy sources. While Hong Kong benefits from energy imports from mainland China, its role as a global shipping hub is threatened by potential disruptions to international bunkering. The situation underscores the urgency for Hong Kong and other regions to transition to greener shipping and enhance energy security.

In March 2026, Japan began releasing oil from its emergency reserves in response to a global energy crisis. This crisis was triggered by the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, amid a war with the US and Israel. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced Japan would unilaterally release 80 million barrels, preceding a coordinated effort by the IEA to release 400 million barrels globally. The move aims to stabilize the market amid concerns about disrupted oil supplies through the Strait, a critical waterway for global oil transport. Despite the IEA's efforts, oil prices have remained elevated, with Brent crude rising significantly since the start of the conflict. Japan has stated it will not deploy its navy to the Strait.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump threatened further strikes on Iran's Kharg Island, a major oil export hub, stating the US might hit it "just for fun." This followed previous US strikes on the island, which Trump claimed had "totally demolished" much of it. He also urged allies to deploy warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran would retaliate against any attacks on its energy facilities, alleging the US launched the Kharg Island strikes from locations in the UAE. Subsequently, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for missile and drone strikes on targets in Israel and US bases in the region, citing retaliation for workers killed in Iran's industrial areas.

Donald Trump stated the U.S. might strike Iran's Kharg Island oil export hub again, "just for fun," despite ongoing negotiations for a deal to end the conflict. He claimed the U.S. had "totally demolished" the island. Trump questioned the condition of Iran's supreme leader and whether Iran had deployed mines in the Strait of Hormuz. He called for international collaboration to secure the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting the U.S. would coordinate with other nations to ensure safe passage of oil tankers. Trump asserted the U.S. has defeated Iran militarily and economically, and that countries benefiting from oil transported through the strait should contribute to its security.

Following a US strike that killed a top Iranian leader, former President Trump is urging US allies to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's joint military command has threatened retaliation, specifically mentioning potential attacks on cities in the UAE, claiming the US launched strikes on Iran's Kharg Island from there, though without providing evidence. The Trump administration has offered varying justifications for the strike, citing concerns ranging from Iran's nuclear program to its ballistic missile capabilities. US Central Command released video purportedly showing US forces destroying targets on Kharg Island, Iran. Tensions are high in the region as Iran vows to respond.

Following the alleged closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran in retaliation for bombings by the US and Israel, causing significant disruption to global energy and trade, former US President Trump urged countries to send warships to secure the vital shipping route. The UK, Japan, China, and South Korea are among those considering their options, but have been reluctant to commit to a military response. Iran has declared oil tankers heading to the US, Israel, or their allies as legitimate targets. The UK Ministry of Defence stated they are in discussions with allies, considering options like mine-hunting drones. Japan has also indicated it might send warships to the region. The US has not yet deployed its own navy ships to escort tankers.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright indicated the conflict with Iran could persist for several weeks, impacting global oil and petrol prices. Wright defended the military action as necessary to eliminate Iran's threat to the Middle East and its ability to destabilize energy markets. He stated the administration aims to prevent further attacks on American soldiers and halt Iran's nuclear weapons program. Oil prices have risen, exceeding $103 per barrel, due to Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for oil and LNG. President Trump has called on countries like China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK to deploy warships to ensure the Strait remains open.

Donald Trump is urging countries that rely on oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz to send warships to help keep the waterway open and safe, claiming Iran's actions threaten global oil supply. Trump stated on Truth Social that the U.S. has significantly weakened Iran but needs assistance securing the Strait from potential Iranian attacks. He specifically called on China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK to contribute ships. Trump vowed a strong U.S. response, including bombing the shoreline and targeting Iranian vessels, until the Strait is open and secure. He emphasized that countries benefiting from the oil passage should share the responsibility, with the U.S. offering coordination and support.

The UK is considering sending minesweeping drones to the Strait of Hormuz to help reopen the vital waterway for oil exports. This plan is in response to rising concerns about escalating the crisis by sending ships, as requested by US President Trump. The UK government is exploring options to contribute to the strait's reopening, including mine-hunting drones, in collaboration with its allies. Iran's threat to target ships in the strait has caused oil prices to surge, raising concerns about higher inflation and lower economic growth. Prime Minister Starmer and President Trump discussed the situation, with Starmer emphasizing de-escalation.

On March 14, 2026, Donald Trump shared a video of airstrikes hours after claiming the United States conducted "powerful bombing raids" on Kharg Island, an Iranian oil hub. Trump stated the U.S. targeted military assets. He also threatened further action against Iranian oil facilities if Iran were to impede passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The post and statement followed unspecified tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The video's authenticity and the specific targets hit were not independently verified in the report. The reasons behind the timing of the post were not stated.

Amidst escalating conflict in the Middle East, Israel declared the war against Iran was entering a "decisive phase." On Saturday, explosions occurred across the region, including strikes on the US embassy in Baghdad and a major Emirati energy facility in Fujairah. The US embassy in Iraq was hit by a drone, marking the second attack since the US and Israel initiated strikes against Iran, plunging the Gulf into conflict. The ongoing conflict, now in its third week, has resulted in reported deaths of over 1,200 people in Iran, mass displacement, and a surge in oil prices due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian military warned UAE civilians to avoid port areas following the attack on the Fujairah oil terminal.

Donald Trump is urging countries including the UK, China, France, Japan, and South Korea to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz to secure the vital shipping route. This call comes after reported attacks on sixteen ships in the strait since the US and Israel began their war against Iran. Trump stated his belief that Iran could still pose a threat to the waterway despite its military capabilities being largely destroyed. He also threatened to bomb the shoreline and target Iran's oil infrastructure if it interferes with ships in the Strait. Iran has responded by threatening to destroy oil and energy infrastructure belonging to firms working with the US should Kharg Island be attacked and has warned that any tanker bound for the US, Israel or its partners is a legitimate target.

Former US President Donald Trump stated on Friday that the US had bombed military targets on Iran's Kharg Island, a key oil export hub. He claimed he refrained from destroying the island's oil infrastructure "for reasons of decency," but threatened to reconsider if Iran interfered with shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Kharg Island, located off the Iranian coast, is the primary terminal for nearly all of Iran's oil exports. While the US and Israel have previously avoided targeting the island, Trump administration officials had reportedly considered capturing it. Trump indicated that seizing the island was not a priority but that he could quickly change his mind.

Kharg Island, located off the coast of Iran, is a vital component of the country's energy infrastructure. The small island plays a critical role as a key export terminal for Iranian oil. Recently, former US President Donald Trump claimed the US military conducted a bombing raid, destroying military targets on Kharg Island. Security analyst Mikey Kay explains the strategic importance of Kharg Island to Iran's economy and why it holds significance for the United States. The analysis highlights Kharg Island's role as a lifeline for Iran due to its function in oil exports.

Following disruptions to global oil supplies due to conflict in the Middle East, US President Donald Trump called on nations, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK, to send warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait, located between the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean, is a crucial trade route for oil and liquefied natural gas. The US aims to collaborate with these countries to ensure the Strait remains open and safe, as it carries approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply. Trump indicated that the US would also begin escorting tankers through the Strait soon.

In March 2026, former US President Donald Trump shared a video appearing to show strikes on Kharg Island, Iran's primary oil export hub. Kharg Island is significant because it serves as the central point for Iran's oil exports. Analysts suggest that any attack on Kharg Island could severely damage Iran's oil revenue, which is vital to the country's economy. Furthermore, disruptions to Kharg Island's operations could have a ripple effect, potentially destabilizing global energy markets due to reduced oil supply. Trump stated he spared the oil infrastructure "for reasons of decency".

Kharg Island, located in the Persian Gulf, is the site of Iran's primary oil export terminal. The island's strategic importance stems from its role in facilitating the majority of Iran's oil exports. Due to this, Kharg Island has been a target of U.S. strikes. Any potential disruption to operations on Kharg Island could have significant consequences for global energy markets. The island's vulnerability and its central role in Iran's oil infrastructure make it a key point of concern regarding stability in the region and its impact on worldwide energy supplies.

Kharg Island, located in the Persian Gulf, is the site of Iran's primary oil export terminal. The island is strategically important due to its role in global energy markets. Recently, Kharg Island has been targeted by U.S. strikes. Any disruption to the oil operations on Kharg Island could have significant repercussions for the global energy supply and market stability. The island's vulnerability highlights the potential for geopolitical events to impact international oil prices and availability.

Amidst the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran in March 2026, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared it would block all oil tankers from passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil supplies. The IRGC warned that any vessel linked to the US, Israel, or their allies would be considered a legitimate target. This action, coupled with production slowdowns in some Gulf countries, has roiled global energy markets. The IRGC anticipates oil prices to reach $200 per barrel, despite the release of 400 million barrels from global reserves. The closure of the Strait, through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil transits, and attacks on ships in the area have exacerbated concerns about further disruptions and rising prices.

Kharg Island, Iran's crucial oil export hub responsible for 90% of the country's oil exports, has remained untouched during the recent US-Israel bombing campaign. Experts believe that attacking Kharg Island would severely disrupt global energy markets, potentially driving oil prices to $150 a barrel. While the US has struck thousands of targets in and around Iran, including some oil refineries and depots, Kharg has been spared, despite reports suggesting the White House considered seizing it. The island's strategic importance lies in its deep-water access, allowing for the loading of very large crude tankers, and its capacity to handle millions of barrels of oil daily, with significant reserves stored as backup. The fear of Iranian retaliation has already impacted oil prices and tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.

The International Energy Agency (IEA), comprised of 32 member countries, is preparing to release 400 million barrels of oil from its stockpiles. This marks only the fifth time in the IEA's history that it has taken such action. The move is intended to alleviate pressure on global oil prices, which have been affected by geopolitical events such as the conflict in Iran. The IEA was originally formed in response to the 1970s oil crisis to mitigate the impact of disruptions in the oil market. However, there is no certainty that this release will successfully lower prices.

Kharg Island, located off the coast of Iran in the northern Gulf, is a crucial hub handling approximately 90% of Iran's crude oil exports. A recent Axios report cited former Trump administration officials suggesting the possibility of the U.S. considering capturing Kharg Island amidst ongoing Middle East tensions. Analysts warn that any action targeting the island would significantly disrupt Iran's oil exports, potentially halting them entirely. Experts predict that a direct strike on Kharg Island would likely provoke a strong retaliatory response from Iran, possibly impacting the Strait of Hormuz or regional energy infrastructure. The U.S. and Israel have previously avoided targeting the island, recognizing the potential for major escalation.

Amid rising tensions over oil shipments, the US military attacked and destroyed 16 Iranian mine-laying vessels near the Strait of Hormuz. This action followed reports that Iran had begun laying mines in the strategically important waterway, through which about one-fifth of the world's oil passes. The US military released footage of the attacks shortly after Donald Trump demanded the removal of any Iranian mines in the Strait. Oil shipments have been blocked since US-Israeli strikes on Iran 11 days prior, causing market volatility, further exacerbated by a retracted social media post from the US energy secretary claiming a successful US Navy escort of an oil tanker through the Strait. Iran has threatened to stop any movement of the US fleet and its allies in the region.