During a bilateral meeting at the White House on Thursday, Donald Trump drew attention after referencing attack on Pearl Harbor while hosting Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
The engagement initially unfolded on a light note, with Trump commending Takaichi for her English proficiency and joking about avoiding the need for translation.
As a reporter attempted to ask a question, Trump interjected, suggesting that Takaichi’s interpreter would assist.
The Japanese leader responded, “It’s okay,” prompting Trump to confirm, “Is that okay?” before continuing: “Do you understand? It’s very good, I’ll tell you. I mean, it’s so nice that we don’t have to sit (through translation) no, it’s very good. I haven’t, I haven’t picked up your language, so the next time you come, I will have your language back,” indicating he might try to learn Japanese.
The tone shifted when Trump addressed a question about why allies such as Japan were not informed in advance about recent strikes on Iran.
In response, he made a remark referencing Pearl Harbor, saying: “We didn’t tell anybody about it because we wanted surprise. Who knows better about surprise than Japan? Why didn’t you tell me about Pearl Harbor? OK?” The comment appeared to create a moment of discomfort, as Takaichi’s expression reportedly changed.
The reference relates to Japan’s 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, which resulted in the deaths of more than 2,400 Americans and led to the United States entering World War II. The conflict later culminated in the US deploying atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, marking the only wartime use of nuclear weapons.
Takaichi’s visit comes shortly after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28, making her one of the first allied leaders to meet Trump following the escalation. The meeting also followed Trump’s earlier remarks suggesting Japan had not immediately supported efforts to secure the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
During the talks, Takaichi reiterated Japan’s opposition to Iran’s nuclear ambitions, describing the current global and Middle Eastern situation as “very severe.” “Even against that backdrop, I firmly believe that it is only you, Donald, who can achieve peace across the world,” she said.
Trump, in turn, praised the Japanese leader, calling her a “popular, powerful woman” and adding, “This is a spectacular woman, and it’s an honour to have you at the White House.” Takaichi referred to the two leaders as “best buddies” and concluded in English, “Japan is back.”
Earlier the same day, Japan joined five European nations in issuing a joint statement urging Iran to halt disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The countries also expressed willingness to support efforts aimed at ensuring safe maritime passage, though specifics were not disclosed.
Speaking to reporters, Trump indicated that discussions with Takaichi would include Japan’s potential role in supporting US actions in the region, stating, “They are really stepping up to the plate.” He noted Japan’s reliance on oil shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz, adding, “So that’s a big reason to step up.” Trump also referenced US military presence and defence spending in Japan, saying, “I expect Japan to step up, you know, because we have that kind of relationship.”
Following the meeting, Takaichi confirmed that both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining security in the Strait of Hormuz, while also outlining the limits of Japan’s actions under its domestic laws.
In addition to regional security discussions, the two leaders finalised a nuclear reactor agreement valued at $40 billion, according to the White House.
