Japanese Lawmaker Questions Taiwan Attack, Cites China's New National Unity Law

A recent assault on journalist Akihiro Yaita in Taiwan has drawn attention from Japan's parliament, with lawmakers expressing concern over potential Chinese cross-border suppression tactics. Yaita, CEO of the Indo-Pacific Strategy Think Tank, was attacked in Taipei on July 6.

Japanese lawmaker Daihei Ishihara raised the issue during a session of the House of Councillors' Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee. He highlighted Taiwan's Foreign Ministry's characterization of the incident as the first "cross-border suppression case" following the July 1 enactment of China's "National Unity Promotion Law." Ishihara questioned whether the attack was planned and organized, urging the Japanese government to state its position and take preventive measures against similar incidents occurring in Japan.

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The government has been informed of this case, but it is inappropriate to comment on individual cases as the investigation is ongoing.

Taiwanese authorities identified the suspect as a Hong Kong national with Chinese citizenship. The Foreign Ministry condemned the act, suggesting it was influenced by the new Chinese law, which aims to penalize individuals or organizations deemed to be undermining national unity. Ishihara noted that Yaita, a long-time commentator, may have been targeted for his remarks.

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We will continue to prioritize the safety of Japanese nationals overseas and provide necessary assistance.

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi responded that the government is aware of the case but cannot comment on ongoing investigations. He assured that Japan prioritizes the safety of its overseas citizens and will provide necessary assistance. Ishihara pressed for a clear stance against violence targeting journalists, to which Motegi reiterated that while individual cases cannot be discussed, the government will issue safety advisories and offer support to Japanese nationals facing difficulties abroad.

Ishihara further warned that such incidents could extend beyond Taiwan and potentially occur within Japan itself, expressing personal concern about facing attacks from Chinese individuals. He requested concrete preventative measures from the government. The National Police Agency stated it is gathering intelligence and will implement necessary security measures if threats are identified, and will investigate any criminal acts according to law. The government also stated it will monitor China's new law, which could have extraterritorial effects, and ensure the safety of Japanese citizens and the freedom of speech and research within Japan.

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Similar incidents may not only occur overseas but also in Japan.