How Japan Reacted to Trump’s Pearl Harbor Joke
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- President Trump made a controversial Pearl Harbor joke during a White House meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, referencing Japan's surprise attack in World War II while explaining why he did not give Japan advance notice of an attack on Iran.
- The joke elicited scattered laughter but caused discomfort, with Prime Minister Takaichi remaining silent and crossing her arms during the remark.
- The comment sparked criticism among Japanese scholars, politicians, and commentators, who viewed it as insensitive and potentially damaging to US-Japan relations.
- Some critics also expressed disappointment that Prime Minister Takaichi did not respond to the joke, seeing it as a missed opportunity to address the sensitive historical reference.
- Japanese media commentator Toru Tamagawa described the
