Japan’s Takaichi tells Trump ‘only you can bring peace’, then came a ‘Pearl Harbour’ crack by US Prez
As Trump fielded questions during the roughly 30-minute public appearance with the prime minister in the Oval Office before their closed-door meeting, Taikaichi could be seen checking her watch.
President Donald Trump attends a dinner with Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in the State Dining Room of the White House, Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi sought to reaffirm ties with US President Donald Trump during a meeting at the White House, after concerns in Washington over Japan’s role in the Iran conflict, according to the Associated Press (AP).
Speaking through an interpreter, Takaichi told Trump that the global security situation was “very severe” but added, “I firmly believe that it is only you… who can achieve peace across the world,” AP reported.
Trump has recently said allies should do more to help protect the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil supplies. He told reporters he expects Japan to “step up”, adding that the country depends heavily on energy passing through the route.
During the meeting, both leaders exchanged positive remarks. Trump described Takaichi as a “popular, powerful woman”. However, there were moments of discomfort when reporters asked about Japan’s support for the war.
President Donald Trump speaks at a dinner with Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in the State Dining Room of the White House, Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
At one point, Trump referred to Japan’s 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor while speaking about military surprise. “We didn’t tell anybody… Who knows better about surprise than Japan?” he said, according to AP. Takaichi appeared to react quietly, without responding to the remark.
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Takaichi said after the meeting that both sides agreed on the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and safe. She also explained the limits of Japan’s role under its laws, which restrict the use of force except for self-defence.
Earlier, Japan joined several European countries in calling for Iran to stop attacks affecting shipping in the region. The countries said they were ready to support efforts to ensure safe passage, though details were not given.
President Donald Trump attends a dinner with Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in the State Dining Room of the White House, Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
AP reported that the meeting also included talks on economic cooperation. The two sides are expected to announce a $40 billion nuclear energy deal involving US-based GE Vernova and Japan’s Hitachi to build reactors in the United States.
The talks come as the conflict in the Middle East affects global energy flows and puts pressure on US allies to respond.
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President Donald Trump attends a dinner with Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in the State Dining Room of the White House, Thursday, March 19, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
