apan’s July 16 defense white paper reasserts its territorial claims over the Senkaku Islands and maritime zones in the East China Sea, sparking diplomatic backlash from China and South Korea.
- The paper calls for increased naval patrols and missile defense upgrades.
- China condemned the document as “militaristic and destabilizing,” while South Korea criticized Japan’s claim over disputed islets.
- Japan’s Defense Minister stated, “We will not yield our sovereign rights.”
- The U.S. supported Japan’s position, citing freedom of navigation and the rule of law.
This escalation highlights East Asia’s fragile balance of power and Japan’s resolve to defend its strategic interests.
