Zahra Asghari – International Relations Expert
Sanae Takaichi, a prominent and veteran Japanese politician, is a member of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and has held important positions in various Japanese cabinets. Her most important role was as Japan’s Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications.
Takaichi is considered one of Japan’s conservative and nationalist figures and has close ties to the country’s right-wing movement and nationalist historical associations. On security and defense issues, she holds hardline positions and supports strengthening Japan’s military and revising the country’s pacifist constitution.
In 2021, Takaichi ran for the Liberal Democratic Party leadership for the first time but lost to Kishida. However, in 2025, on the party’s 70th anniversary, she was elected as the leader of the ruling party.
During her recent election campaign, Takaichi stated that her goal in entering politics was “to become Japan’s Iron Lady.” Given her political background and ideological views, one can expect a more conservative, security-focused policy, and especially a closer alignment with the United States.

Closer Ties with America and a Security Shift in East Asia
Takaichi strongly advocates for a security alliance with the United States and will likely expand military and technological cooperation with Washington, particularly in the areas of missiles, artificial intelligence, and cyberspace. She might even welcome the further deployment of US military equipment on Japanese soil.
Regarding China, her positions have traditionally been hardline. She is expected to take a more explicit stance in support of Taiwan, an approach Japanese politicians usually take with greater caution.
Concerning North Korea, Takaichi has repeatedly warned about its missile and nuclear threats and emphasized the need to increase Japan’s military budget to strengthen deterrence. She is likely to support a strategy that includes deploying advanced defense systems and enhancing the combat capabilities of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces.
A hardline approach is also predicted towards South Korea, as she is known for her nationalist historical views, particularly regarding World War II issues between the two countries. However, it is unlikely that Takaichi will deviate from the framework of security cooperation with the US and South Korea against North Korean threats.
Takaichi’s approach towards Russia and the Middle East will most likely align with US policies. Despite Japan’s need for oil and gas, she is expected to continue operating based on cooperation with Washington and its international allies. At the same time, given Japan’s sensitivity to energy, she will likely welcome and support stability and security in the Middle East.
Regarding Iran, Takaichi’s positions are expected to align fully with Washington’s policies. She will likely follow US decisions towards Tehran, including sanctions, diplomatic pressure, or restricting the nuclear program.

Constitutional Revision: The Key to Changing Japan’s Policy
Analysts believe the most important focus of Takaichi’s foreign policy will be efforts to revise Article 9 of Japan’s pacifist constitution, which restricts the use of military force to resolve international disputes. She intends to remove this restriction so Japan can have a real, independent army.
If successful, Takaichi will bring about one of the most significant policy changes in over seven decades, transforming Japan from a solely defensive power into a more military and active power in East Asia. Such a development would further strengthen Tokyo’s relations with Washington and increase tensions with China and North Korea.
Ultimately, Takaichi’s primary objectives as Prime Minister will be to strengthen the Liberal Democratic Party’s domestic position, revise the constitution, increase public trust, and build a stronger Japan economically and militarily.