Japan Conveys Regret After Soldier's Arrest at Chinese Embassy
Japan communicated its regrets to China after authorities confirmed the arrest of a Japanese army soldier for alleged trespass at the Chinese embassy in Tokyo. This development followed a protest from China regarding the alleged break-in.
Lin Jian, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, reported the initial incident.
An individual claiming to be a Japan Self-Defense Forces officer scaled a wall and forcibly entered the embassy compound on Tuesday morning.
Tokyo police confirmed on Wednesday the arrest of a 23-year-old member of the Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF), Japan’s army, in connection with the alleged trespassing. The GSDF verified the suspect is a soldier stationed at Camp Ebino in Japan’s southwestern Miyazaki prefecture and stated that officials are fully cooperating with the police.
Japan's Official Response and Security Measures
Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara described the arrest of an SDF soldier as "extremely regrettable." Kihara also expressed regret over the alleged trespassing, noting that Japanese police provide routine security around the Chinese embassy, which has since been reinforced with increased staffing.
Following China’s protest and demand for preventive measures, Japan conveyed its regret. Kihara explained that Japanese ministries would respond appropriately, including taking preventive actions under relevant international and domestic laws.
Suspect's Alleged Motive and Discovery
Japanese media, citing police, reported details concerning the suspect's alleged intent.
The suspect allegedly entered the embassy with the intention of telling the Chinese ambassador to alter China’s hardline stance on Japan. He also reportedly stated he would commit suicide with a knife he was carrying if his demand was rejected.
Japan’s NHK public television reported that the suspect was detained at the scene and handed over to Tokyo police for further investigation, with no injuries reported. A knife was reportedly found at the scene.
Heightened Tensions and China's Strong Protest
Tensions between Japan and China have increased in recent months. This follows Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s statement in November that a Chinese military action against Taiwan could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, potentially requiring the use of force. Beijing, which views Taiwan as part of its territory, has subsequently heightened diplomatic and trade reprisals against Japan.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian further reiterated Beijing's stance.
China is "deeply shocked by the incident" and has lodged "solemn representations" and a "strong protest."
Lin asserted that the Japanese side has failed to properly manage and discipline its Self-Defense Forces personnel and has not fulfilled its responsibility to ensure the security of Chinese embassies and their staff. Lin demanded that Japan immediately investigate the incident thoroughly, punish the individual, provide an explanation, and implement preventive measures.