TOKYO — Japan is facing a growing debate over its role in regional security, as a recent Kyodo News poll shows the public divided on a potential military response if China attacks Taiwan.
According to the survey, 48.8% of respondents support exercising Japan’s right to collective self-defense, while 44.2% are against it. At the same time, 60.4% back Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s plan to boost defense spending, reflecting growing public concern about national security.
The poll comes amid rising tensions between Tokyo and Beijing. On November 7, Takaichi warned that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could become a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan, potentially triggering a military response. Her remarks sparked strong criticism from Beijing, which also cautioned Chinese citizens against traveling to Japan.
Taiwan, only 110 km (70 miles) from Japanese territory, firmly rejects China’s claims to sovereignty. Meanwhile, Beijing has not ruled out using force to assert its control over the self-governing island.
In response to these security concerns, Takaichi has pledged to raise Japan’s defense spending to 2% of GDP in the current fiscal year, ahead of the original 2027 target.
The public’s debate reflects the high stakes, but Takaichi’s cabinet enjoys broad support. Her approval rating reached 69.9%, up 5.5 points from last month, according to the Kyodo survey.
As tensions in the Taiwan Strait continue to simmer, Japan faces tough decisions on balancing diplomacy, defense, and public opinion in a rapidly shifting regional landscape.
