The Japanese government, through Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, stated that a naval blockade against Taiwan could be considered a threat to Japan's existence, thus allowing for collective self-defense.

Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae stated that, in the event of a use of force against Taiwan, such as a naval blockade, Japan could recognize this as a 'threat to existence' and could exercise collective self-defense. This statement, made during a hearing at the House of Representatives Budget Committee, is considered a significant step in Japanese security policy. The concept of 'threat to existence' allows Japan to respond militarily in the event that an ally, such as the United States, is attacked. Takaichi emphasized that not every escalation in the Taiwan Strait will lead to military action by Japan, but only serious situations, such as a naval blockade under martial law. This position reflects a historic change in Japan's approach to security and defense.