Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent provocative remarks on Taiwan have drawn fierce criticism from historical and peace advocacy leaders in the United States, who urged her to retract her statements and reflect on Japan's wartime crimes.

The backlash follows Takaichi's comments at a parliament meeting, where she told lawmakers that any use of military force by the Chinese mainland against Taiwan could be considered a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan.

It was the first time that a Japanese leader has publicly suggested the possibility of military intervention in the Taiwan Strait.

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Betty Yuan, a council member of the organization Chinese for Peaceful Unification-Northern California, said Takaichi's statement was "provocative and dangerous" rhetoric and that Japanese society must remain vigilant against any resurgence of militarism.

"It is deeply concerning that these remarks were issued at the milestone of the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration and the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45)," Yuan said.

"This is grave disrespect to history and a provocation to the feelings of victimized peoples.

"It will inevitably have a negative impact on cross-Strait relations and ties between China and Japan. We firmly oppose any attempt to downplay or whitewash Japan's history of invasion."

Fred Zou, deputy secretary-general of the nonprofit Alliance for China's Peaceful Reunification, USA, echoed concerns about growing militarist sentiment in Japan.

"Japan in recent years has been stepping up its military moves, attempting to use military means to interfere in other countries' internal affairs. This exposes the sinister ambitions of Japan's right wing," Zou said.

Both leaders described Takaichi's comments as eerily reminiscent of Japan's colonial rule over Taiwan, an era that left lasting wounds in the region.

"We remain alert to such unapologetic rhetoric. I fear that it could further escalate tensions in the region," Yuan said.

On Thursday, Chinese Vice-Foreign Minister Sun Weidong summoned Japan's Ambassador Kenji Kanasugi, calling Takaichi's remarks "extremely wrong and dangerous".

Sun urged Japan to deeply reflect on its historical crimes and responsibilities, immediately reflect on and correct its mistakes, withdraw its negative remarks and not continue down the wrong path.

Yuan voiced strong support for China's position that "Taiwan is an inalienable part of China", highlighting the role of overseas Chinese communities in defending historical truth and national dignity.

"China's appeal for Japan to reflect on its historical wrongdoing reminds us of the importance of intensifying education about the war of resistance and Taiwan's restoration in our communities," Yuan said. "We must ensure the younger generation understands historical truths and is not misled by erroneous narratives."

Promoting peace

Facing new strains in China-Japan relations, both Yuan and Zou said the overseas Chinese community and peace organizations can play an important role in promoting peace and stability.

"Communities should unite by strengthening historical education and commemorations, briefing local governments about the dangers of provocative remarks from Japanese politicians, and mobilizing support for peace," Yuan said.

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Zou agreed, emphasizing the importance of education.

"This year, Chinese communities and associations across the US have held commemorative events for the 80th anniversary of victory in the war of resistance, with almost every major city participating," he said.

"This new generation of Japanese politicians lacks an understanding of history and is deeply influenced by right-wing ideology. If Japan continues to be this stubborn and insists on reviving militarism, I believe China will certainly hit back and deliver a profound lesson.

"Such a lesson would not only be supported by the Chinese people, but also by other Asian countries that suffered from Japanese aggression."

Contact the writers at liazhu@chinadailyusa.com