U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly made a joke referencing the Pearl Harbor attack during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House on Thursday. According to sources, the comment came when Trump was asked why the U.S. did not warn allies like Japan about plans to attack Iran. Trump reportedly said, "Who knows more about surprises than Japan?" and added, "Why didn't you tell me about Pearl Harbor?"
The meeting occurred amid growing tensions over U.S. military action against Iran and Washington's push for allies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz. Takaichi was reportedly the first G7 leader to visit the White House since backlash over the U.S. request for naval assistance in the region. Japan faces constitutional and legal hurdles in deploying military forces to the area.
Who knows more about surprises than Japan?
According to reports, Takaichi maintained composure during the exchange, unlike others in the room who appeared uncomfortable. The meeting focused on the Iran conflict, which has become a top agenda item as Japan grapples with soaring energy prices. Japan imports 95% of its oil from the Middle East, and the conflict has driven up costs significantly.
The incident reportedly occurred as Japan seeks to balance maintaining good relations with the U.S. while addressing domestic concerns about involvement in foreign conflicts. Japanese officials have expressed concerns about Trump's shifting focus from East Asia to the Middle East and Western Hemisphere, raising questions about U.S. commitment to regional security.
Why didn't you tell me about Pearl Harbor?