China Sanctions Former Japanese Military Chief Shigeru Iwasaki Over 'Taiwan Independence' Collusion

Beijing Imposes Sanctions on Ex-SDF Chief

Beijing announced on Monday, December 15, 2025, that it has imposed sanctions on Shigeru Iwasaki, a former chief of the joint staff of Japan's Self-Defense Forces (SDF). China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Iwasaki 'blatantly engaged with 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces,' thereby violating the 'one-China principle' and interfering in China's internal affairs.

The sanctions are a direct response to Iwasaki's appointment earlier in 2025 as an adviser to Taiwan's Cabinet, a move Beijing views as a serious challenge to its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Details of the Punitive Measures

The measures against Shigeru Iwasaki, implemented under China's Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law, are comprehensive and take immediate effect. They include:

• The freezing of all his movable and immovable properties and other assets within China.
• A prohibition on any organizations or individuals within China from conducting transactions or cooperating with him.
• A ban on his entry into any part of China, including the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions.

These sanctions are largely symbolic, given Iwasaki's status as a private citizen, but they underscore China's firm stance on issues related to Taiwan.

Context Amid Rising Tensions

This action marks the second time China has sanctioned a Japanese national in 2025, following similar measures against lawmaker Hei Seki in September. The sanctions come amidst a period of heightened diplomatic strain between Tokyo and Beijing. Tensions have been particularly acute since remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in November. Takaichi suggested that a Chinese military action against Taiwan could be deemed a 'survival-threatening situation' for Japan, potentially allowing Japan to authorize its military to act. Beijing sharply criticized these remarks, viewing any matter concerning Taiwan as an internal affair.

As of the announcement, there has been no immediate official reaction from the Japanese government regarding the sanctions. Taiwan's Cabinet spokesperson also did not immediately respond to requests for comment.