China issues war warning to Japan via propaganda video

China issues war warning to Japan via propaganda video
Credit: Chinese People's Liberation Army Rocket Force

Beijing (Parliament Politics Magazine) – China released a propaganda video showing war readiness amid rising tensions with Japan over Taiwan, raising global concern and diplomatic warnings.

As reported by The Telegraph, China’s military has signaled its readiness for war, releasing a fiery propaganda video amid escalating tensions with Japan.

How did China respond to Japan’s Taiwan remarks with a propaganda video?

The video, titled “If war breaks out today, this is my response”, was made by the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force, the military branch responsible for all missiles, and includes dramatic clips of fighter jets and warships.

The video was released just two weeks after newly elected Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger a Japanese military response.

A Chinese diplomat in Japan suggested the Prime Minister should face decapitation, sparking a diplomatic row.

Despite repeated calls from Chinese authorities to retract her statements, Ms. Takaichi, the self-styled “Iron Lady” inspired by former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, has refused.

The PLA published the video with English subtitles via China’s state media, indicating it was intended for a global audience rather than just domestic viewers.

Following PLA traditions, the footage resembled a Hollywood-style trailer more than a military demonstration, merging missile firings with visuals from China’s massive September military parade.

The video was accompanied by the military song “If War Breaks Out Today,” featuring lyrics on war preparation and mobilisation, and has a history in Rocket Force propaganda.

What did Wang Yi say about Japan-Taiwan tensions?

The provocative video, while not naming Japan, is widely seen as a warning to the Asian neighbour and was released the same day China’s foreign minister Wang Yi publicly addressed Ms Takaichi’s remarks.

He stated that the comments were “a red line that should not have been touched” and that it was

“shocking for a sitting Japanese leader to openly send a wrong signal of attempting to intervene militarily in the Taiwan question.”

Mr Wang added,

“China must resolutely hit back – not only to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, but also to defend the hard-won postwar achievements secured with blood and sacrifice.”

What did Sanae Takaichi say about Taiwan and possible military action?

Sanae Takaichi said Taiwan’s security is critical to Japan and warned Tokyo could take military action if China attacks the island.

She described a Chinese military blockade or attack on Taiwan as a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan. Her comments underscore Japan’s readiness to act, including joint defense of Taiwan, which China claims as part of its sovereign territory.

China labelled her remarks as serious interference in its internal affairs, accusing Japan of threatening regional stability with its military stance.

How does China use military videos to send warnings amid Taiwan tensions?

The Chinese government often highlights its military capabilities through videos during key moments to convey strategic signals.

Ahead of Nancy Pelosi’s official Taiwan visit, China’s Eastern Theatre Command released a video showing troops preparing for action, similar to the clip shared on Sunday.

Ms Pelosi became the highest-ranking US official to visit Taiwan in 25 years. China condemned the visit as “manic, irresponsible, and irrational” and boosted military activity nearby.

When did Sanae Takaichi become prime minister, and how many votes did she receive?

Sanae Takaichi became Japan’s Prime Minister on October 21, 2025, after being elected by the Japanese parliament following her victory as leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

She secured 237 votes in the Lower House, achieving a majority of the 465 total votes, and won 125 votes in the Upper House runoff out of 246 total votes.