- Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi referred to Donald Trump as her “best buddy” shortly before a White House dinner on Thursday night, expressing confidence in their shared goals for stronger and more prosperous nations.
- This came hours after an awkward exchange in the Oval Office where Trump made a joke about the Pearl Harbor attack.
- Trump's comment: “Who knows better about surprise than Japan?” was made when asked why he did not warn allies about Iran airstrikes, causing silence in the room and a wide-eyed reaction from Takaichi.
- Social media users widely criticized Trump's remark, with many noting Takaichi's discomfort and suggesting Japan was being mocked.
- Despite the incident, Takaichi praised Trump's capacity to achieve global peace and pledged Japan's readiness to contribute to international efforts, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
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