China has strongly protested after a “forceful break-in” at its embassy in Tokyo, according to the Chinese foreign ministry. A Japanese Self-Defense Forces officer claimed to be on active duty and broke into the embassy on Tuesday morning. The intruder admitted his actions were illegal and threatened to harm Chinese diplomatic staff, citing God as his reason.
China expressed deep shock over the incident and demanded Japan investigate thoroughly, punish those responsible, and provide an explanation. The ministry urged Japan to ensure the safety of Chinese embassy premises and personnel and to reconsider its policies toward China.
Japan’s defense ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Relations between the two countries have been tense since Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested last November that a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger a military response from Tokyo.
Additionally, Japan plans to downgrade its description of ties with China in an annual diplomatic report, citing recent confrontations with Beijing, according to Reuters. When asked about this decision, the Chinese spokesperson reiterated calls for Prime Minister Takaichi to withdraw her earlier remarks.