In a recent phone call between the new U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, both officials expressed their commitment to enhancing the longstanding alliance between the United States and Japan. This conversation comes on the heels of Hegseth’s swearing-in, which marked a narrow Senate confirmation amid various controversies, including allegations regarding his past behavior and questions surrounding his experience.
Japan and the United States maintain a robust partnership as key allies, with each nation being the other’s top foreign investor. Currently, around 54,000 U.S. military personnel are stationed in Japan, predominantly in Okinawa, which is strategically located east of Taiwan. However, analysts caution that President Donald Trump’s “America First” policy may lead to reduced financial support for security in the Asia-Pacific, raising concerns among regional allies.
During the call, both ministers emphasized the importance of reinforcing their alliance. Tokyo’s defense ministry noted the intention to enhance command and control frameworks and expand bilateral military presence in Japan’s southwestern region. Gen Nakatani underscored his eagerness to collaborate with Hegseth to improve the alliance’s capabilities, particularly in light of a worsening security situation in the Asia-Pacific.
Additionally, both officials reaffirmed that Article V of the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security applies to the Senkaku Islands, a group of uninhabited islands that Japan administers but which are claimed by China. This territorial dispute has historically created tension between the two nations.
Nakatani also expressed his condolences to the families affected by a recent tragic accident in the U.S. involving a passenger jet and a military helicopter. The ministers concluded their conversation by expressing a desire to meet in person as soon as possible to further their discussions.
Following his appointment, Hegseth made a public commitment to “restore the warrior ethos” within the Pentagon, acknowledging President Trump for his selection for the role. He also thanked Vice President JD Vance for casting a decisive tie-breaking vote in the Senate that allowed his confirmation to proceed. Vance’s involvement marked a rare instance where a vice president had to intervene in favor of a cabinet nominee, especially after three Republican senators, including former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, voted against Hegseth.
As the geopolitical landscape in Asia shifts, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has articulated the need for continued U.S. commitment to regional security to prevent a potential power vacuum. Ishiba indicated a desire to deepen cooperation with the U.S. and has proposed a meeting with President Trump, with February 7 being suggested as a possible date for their talks. In addressing the current state of affairs, Ishiba stated the necessity for concrete actions to bolster the Japan-U.S. partnership as the balance of power in the region begins to change historically.
