Gen Nakatani, a former Japanese Defense Minister, has called on Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to adopt a firmer position against U.S. sanctions imposed on the International Criminal Court (ICC) and its Japanese president, Tomoko Akane. Nakatani criticized the sanctions as an affront to the rules-based international order and urged the Japanese government to advocate for their removal by Washington.
Expressing concerns about Japan’s international standing, Nakatani argued that the country should balance its close security alliance with the United States with a commitment to upholding the rule of law and supporting the ICC. He cautioned that failing to address the issue could harm Japan’s credibility with both its global partners and the U.S. This appeal comes as Prime Minister Takaichi prepares for her anticipated visit to the United States for the United Nations General Assembly, where a meeting with President Donald Trump might occur. A cross-party group of lawmakers, led by Nakatani, intends to formally present their demands to the Japanese government.
In previous statements, Takaichi referred to the U.S. sanctions against the ICC as unfortunate and not aligned with Japan’s policies. However, Nakatani is urging Tokyo to issue a more robust protest and explicitly demand the withdrawal of the measures targeting Akane and the court. The sanctions were imposed by the United States following accusations that the ICC exceeded its authority, particularly in investigations involving Israeli officials and U.S. military personnel. These sanctions include restrictions on assets within U.S. jurisdiction and limitations on entry into the country.
Despite the sanctions, Akane has maintained her resolve to continue her duties and has called on Japan and other ICC member states to defend the court’s integrity. She has also encouraged efforts to dissuade Washington from escalating the situation further. The ongoing tensions have brought attention to the diplomatic balancing act faced by Japan as it navigates its alliances and international commitments.