Japanese Lawmakers Condemn Attack on Journalist in Taiwan, Denounce Violence

A group of Japanese cross-party lawmakers has issued a strong statement condemning the recent assault on journalist Yoichi Shimada in Taichung, Taiwan. The incident, which involved a Hong Kong national, has prompted concerns about foreign interference and the suppression of free speech. The parliamentary group, "Diet Members' Association for Thinking About Peace and Stability in the Taiwan Strait," released a formal statement on July 13, 2026, denouncing all forms of violence and reaffirming their commitment to freedom of expression. Shimada, who is the CEO of the Indo-Pacific Strategy Think Tank, was attacked at a hotel in Taichung on July 6. Taiwanese authorities arrested a suspect at Taichung International Airport, identifying him as a Hong Kong resident. Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the act as the first "cross-border suppression incident" since China's "National Unity Promotion Law" took effect on July 1, urging the international community to oppose China's "abuse of cross-border suppression."

The Japanese lawmakers echoed these sentiments, expressing deep concern over the incident and reiterating that any attempt to suppress speech through violence and coercion is unacceptable. They emphasized their shared universal values with Taiwan and their close attention to the situation. While awaiting the results of the police investigation, the association conveyed its "strong indignation" at the use of violence to silence free speech. The statement, issued from Tokyo, also conveyed wishes for Shimada's swift recovery and a resolute message: "We will never yield to any suppression by violence."

The "Diet Members' Association for Thinking About Peace and Stability in the Taiwan Strait" was formed in June 2026 by five Japanese parliamentarians, including Senators Haruo Kitamura and Yoshihiko Yamada, and Representatives Kaoru Nishida and Mitsuhiro Yokota. The group's formation underscores a growing concern among Japanese legislators regarding regional security and the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Their strong reaction to the attack on Shimada highlights a unified stance against perceived external pressures aimed at stifling open discourse and democratic values.

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We will never yield to any suppression by violence.