Chinese Defense Ministry Labels Patrols Near Diaoyu Islands as Legal, Advises Japan to Exercise Restraint

Beijing, January 8. Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang stated on Thursday that the China Coast Guard’s patrols in the waters adjacent to the Diaoyu Islands (known as Senkaku in Japan) are entirely legal and legitimate, aimed at safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity and maritime rights. He dismissed objections raised by Japanese media on the matter as unnecessary and urged the relevant party to exercise restraint.

Spokesperson Zhang made these remarks in response to a Japanese media report claiming that by the end of 2025, China Coast Guard vessels had been spotted in waters related to the Diaoyu Islands for 356 days—exceeding the 355-day record set in 2024.

Zhang clarified, “The Diaoyu Island and its affiliated islands are an inherent part of China’s territory. The patrols and law enforcement activities conducted by the China Coast Guard in the relevant waters are for the protection of maritime rights and territorial integrity, leaving no room for anyone to infringe upon them.”

He warned Japan against taking any actions that could escalate tensions, stating, “We urge the Japanese side to exercise restraint in both words and actions. Otherwise, they will only end up lifting a rock to drop it on their own feet.”

China has consistently asserted historical and legal claims over the Diaoyu Islands, while Japan also maintains its rights over the area. The military and coast guard presence of both countries in the region has continued to heighten regional tensions.

The increasing patrols by the China Coast Guard signal Beijing’s determination to maintain an active role in the area, while Japan views this as a challenge to regional peace and stability. Analysts note that this dispute could impact the security balance in the Asia-Pacific region.