China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) announced on 15/12 that it had imposed sanctions on general Shigeru Iwasaki. The ministry accused Iwasaki of "openly colluding with 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces", which it stated severely violates the "one China" principle and the spirit of four political documents between the two nations. Beijing added that Iwasaki's actions interfere in China's internal affairs and undermine its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Effective 15/12, the sanctions prohibit Iwasaki from entering China. Additionally, any assets he holds within the country will be frozen, and Chinese citizens and organizations are forbidden from engaging with him.

When asked about the actions that led to Beijing's sanctions, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that China firmly opposes the former Japanese military chief of staff's appointment as an advisor to the Taiwan authorities.

According to Guo, Beijing had issued strong demarches to Tokyo and implemented countermeasures against Iwasaki. However, the former official allegedly continued to "collude" with pro-Taiwan independence forces and participated in "provocative activities."

Shigeru Iwasaki during a visit to the Pentagon in 2012. Photo: US Department of Defense.

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed regret over China's "unilateral measure, which appears aimed at intimidating those with differing views."

Iwasaki, 72, served as Japan's chief of staff from 2012 to 2014. He was appointed an advisor to the Taiwan authorities in 3/2025, according to media reports from the island.

Beijing's move comes amidst China-Japan relations reaching their lowest point in years. This downturn follows remarks made by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi last month concerning Taiwan. Takaichi had warned that Japan might take military action if Taiwan were attacked. Taiwan lies 100 km from Japan's nearest island.

The Japanese Prime Minister later softened her stance to de-escalate tensions, but China rejected this, continuing to demand a retraction of her statements.

China consistently regards Taiwan as an inseparable part of its territory, ready to use all means for unification. Chinese leaders have also repeatedly stated they do not rule out the use of force to reclaim the island, although their general policy favors dialogue and peaceful unification.

Pham Giang (According to Xinhua, Global Times, Japan Times, AFP)