US backs Japan in dispute with China over aiming radar at military planes

The U.S. has criticized China for targeting radars at Japanese military aircraft during recent training exercises. This incident near Okinawa intensifies existing tensions, sparked in part by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's comments on a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan.

A State Department spokesperson stated, "China's actions are not conducive to regional peace and stability," reaffirming U.S. support for Japan.

"The U.S.-Japan Alliance is stronger and more united than ever. Our commitment to our ally Japan is unwavering, and we are in close contact on this and other issues."

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary welcomed this support, emphasizing the strong U.S.-Japan alliance. Meanwhile, China's Foreign Ministry maintained that its military drills comply with international law.

Tensions escalated as Japan scrambled jets to monitor joint patrols by Russian and Chinese forces. The radar incident marks one of the most serious military confrontations in years, with both sides offering differing accounts.