US President Donald Trump warmly greeted Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House on Thursday (19 March), praising Japan for “really stepping up to the plate” on Iran, in contrast to NATO allies.
Trump highlighted the US commitment of 45,000 troops in Japan and stressed that the US “doesn’t need anything” but expects partners to contribute to global security.
Trump defended not informing allies before striking Iran, jokingly referencing Pearl Harbor: “Who knows better about surprise than Japan?” He said the early phase of operations achieved more than anticipated due to this approach.
Energy and security cooperation are central to the meeting. In the Oval office Takaichi said she had proposals to stabilise global oil markets and condemned Iran’s attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, while noting Japan’s diplomatic channels with Tehran could support de-escalation.
Discussions are expected to cover trade, missile defence, and investments in US infrastructure and critical minerals.
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