The United States has criticized China for aiming radars at Japanese military aircraft during a training exercise last week. The incidents occurred near Japan's Okinawa islands, amid differing accounts from the two nations and escalating tensions. This marks the first time Washington has publicly addressed the matter.
A U.S. State Department spokesperson stated late Tuesday that China's actions are not conducive to regional peace and stability, criticizing the radar-locking incidents. "The U.S.-Japan Alliance is stronger and more united than ever. Our commitment to our ally Japan is unwavering, and we are in close contact on this and other issues."
The events unfolded on Saturday when Chinese fighter jets directed their radars at Japanese planes, marking the most serious military encounter between the East Asian powers in years. Such maneuvers are viewed as threatening, signaling a potential attack and possibly forcing the targeted aircraft into evasive maneuvers. Tokyo described the actions as "dangerous." Beijing countered that Japanese aircraft had repeatedly approached and disrupted previously announced Chinese navy carrier-based flight training east of the Miyako Strait.
The dispute builds on remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi last month, where she told parliament that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, potentially warranting a military response from Tokyo. China has demanded a retraction, accused Japan of military threats, and issued a travel advisory discouraging its citizens from visiting Japan. U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass has voiced support for Tokyo via social media posts since the diplomatic row began, though President Donald Trump and other senior officials have stayed silent. Trump, who plans a Beijing visit next year for trade talks, reportedly phoned Takaichi last month urging her not to escalate the matter.
Late Tuesday, Japan scrambled jets to monitor joint patrols by Russian and Chinese air forces around the country. These developments underscore the souring ties between Asia's two largest economies.