Takaichi Seeks UN Charter Changes and Defends ICC

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called on the United Nations to remove references to defeated World War II nations as enemy states from its charter during her first address to the General Assembly on Tuesday. Takaichi argued the 81-year-old clauses are anachronistic, noting that Japan has contributed to international peace and prosperity for seven decades. The request follows efforts by China and Russia to use the term to pressure Tokyo over territorial claims and defense spending.

During the same assembly, Takaichi pledged consistent support for the International Criminal Court (ICC), emphasizing Japan's commitment to the rule of law. This position creates friction with the United States, where President Donald Trump characterized the ICC as a rogue institution and urged member states to resign. The U.S. administration has imposed sanctions on the court following its arrest warrant for Benjamin Netanyahu and investigations into U.S. troops in Afghanistan.

On the sidelines of the gathering in New York, Takaichi met with Trump to discuss economic security and the Japan-U.S. alliance. While maintaining strategic ties, Takaichi described U.S. sanctions on ICC President Tomoko Akane, a Japanese national, as very unfortunate. Akane responded to the pressure by stating that the court will not be intimidated and will never be defeated.