Trump makes Pearl Harbor remark in meeting with Japan's PM
President Trump compared US strikes on Iran to the deadly 1941 Japanese attack and declaration of war as part of World War Two.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Key People
No people linked to this story
Locations
All Coverage
President Trump compared US strikes on Iran to the deadly 1941 Japanese attack and declaration of war as part of World War Two.
During a bilateral meeting, President Trump made an uncomfortable joke referencing Pearl Harbor, prompting an awkward reaction from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
President Trump faced sharp criticism and political fallout from the rapid escalation of the U.S.-Israel joint war against Iran, which began on February 28 without notice to key allies. Trump cited the element of surprise—likening it controversially to Japan's 1941 Pearl Harbor attack—to justify his decision, embarrassing visiting Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Trump criticises Nato as alliance chief describes meeting as 'very frank'
The US president says Nato "wasn't there when we needed them" during the Iran war.
April 9, 2026 at 01:59 AMTrump says Iranian 'fast-attack' ships that come close to US 'blockade' will be eliminated - Reuters
Trump says Iranian 'fast-attack' ships that come close to US 'blockade' will be eliminated Reuters
April 13, 2026 at 06:31 PMTrump meets NATO chief as Iran war strains alliance - Reuters
Trump meets NATO chief as Iran war strains alliance Reuters
April 8, 2026 at 10:07 AMTrump attacks Pope over criticism of Iran war
The US president accuses Leo of being "weak on crime and terrible for foreign policy".
April 13, 2026 at 08:32 AMTrump announces 50% tariffs on nations supplying Iran with weapons - Reuters
Trump announces 50% tariffs on nations supplying Iran with weapons Reuters
April 8, 2026 at 11:49 AMRattled by Trump, US allies eye Japan's biggest arms opening since World War Two - Reuters
Rattled by Trump, US allies eye Japan's biggest arms opening since World War Two Reuters
April 15, 2026 at 04:02 AM