US Criticizes China's Radar Targeting Amid Rising Tensions with Japan

The US has condemned China for targeting Japanese military aircraft with radar during a training exercise, an action escalating tensions between China and Japan. The incident follows comments by Japanese PM Takaichi about hypothetical Chinese aggression toward Taiwan, which has stirred diplomatic disagreements in the region.

The United States has publicly criticized China for targeting Japanese military aircraft with radar during a training exercise, marking the first instance of such censure. This event further inflames the growing tension between the neighboring Asian countries, especially after differing narratives emerged from Japan and China.

According to a State Department representative, China's actions undermine regional peace and stability, a sentiment echoed by Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara, who noted the importance of the strong U.S.-Japan alliance. The incident underscores Tokyo's reliance on vital sea lanes near the Japanese territory, which are threatened by China's military maneuvers.

The radar targeting, seen as a potential precursor to attack, prompted Japan to label the move as 'dangerous'. Meanwhile, Beijing's counterclaims assert Japanese planes disrupted their naval exercises. This confrontation follows heated remarks from Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan, further souring relations between China and Japan.

(With inputs from agencies.)