Takaichi navigates Iran tensions with Trump but faces Pearl Harbor surprise

WASHINGTON: Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi managed to avoid a potential confrontation with US President Donald Trump over Iran during her visit to the White House on Thursday, though the meeting was not without its unexpected moments as Trump raised the topic of Pearl Harbor.

The visit came just days after Trump had publicly criticised US allies, including Japan, for not responding to his calls to assist in reopening the Strait of Hormuz — a vital maritime corridor through which approximately one-fifth of the world's oil normally passes.

Trump praises Japan's 'stepping up'

However, during the Oval Office meeting, Trump adopted a notably warmer tone towards Takaichi, offering praise for Tokyo's efforts in connection with the Middle East conflict, though he remained vague on specifics.

"I believe that, based on statements (which) were given to us yesterday, the day before yesterday, having to do with Japan, they are really stepping up to the plate," Trump told reporters as he hosted Takaichi in the Oval Office.

After a lengthy pause, the US president then added "unlike Nato," reiterating his long-standing criticisms of the US-led military alliance comprising mainly European nations.

Trump offered few details regarding what specific assistance Japan might provide in securing the Strait of Hormuz, but his demeanour towards the Japanese prime minister was markedly more cordial compared to the sharp rebukes he had directed at other allies in recent days.

Pearl Harbor reference catches attention

While the Iran-related discussions appeared to proceed without friction, the meeting took an unexpected turn when Trump brought up the subject of Pearl Harbor — the 1941 Japanese attack on the US naval base in Hawaii that drew the United States into World War II. The reference added an element of surprise to what had otherwise been a diplomatically smooth encounter between the two leaders.

The meeting highlighted the delicate balancing act Takaichi faced in managing relations with Washington at a time when Trump has been pressing allies to take on greater roles in Middle Eastern security matters. Japan's willingness to engage on the Strait of Hormuz issue appeared to have satisfied Trump, at least in the short term, distinguishing Tokyo from other allies who have drawn the president's ire.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies, and Trump's push for allied participation in securing the waterway has become a key diplomatic issue in recent weeks, particularly as tensions in the Middle East continue to simmer.