Japanese militarism - Talk to the master before whacking the dog 打狗看主人

 As tension rises in East Asia, Japan, after launching the first blow, continues to escalate with no signs of easing down. China keeps responding to the Japanese provocation by upping the ante. Japan, with the mighty American terrorists behind its back, thinks it is time to push for war between China and the USA. China, forever on the defensive, is now forced to stand up or look silly to its own people and to the whole world.

The phone call between Xi and Trump did not come at a more opportune time. If Trump did not call, Xi is likely to call. Xi has to act in the face of reckless provocation by the Japanese. He cannot look weak to the Chinese people. And the statement by the Japanese woman is as close to a declaration of war, and intent to go to war with China. No Chinese with a little pride and dignity can tolerate this aggression. Period.

There are many angles to look at the conversation between Xi and Trump on the Japanese provocation. There is this saying, before whacking the dog, look at who is the owner. China knows that Japan is just a doggie to the Americans. It is only polite to talk to the Americans before kicking the dog. The owner is no small man and can respond roughly when hurt. Xi is now giving notice to Trump, 'your dog is very aggressive, and I am going to give it a good beating'. 

This is also a way to test the owner's reaction. This is also a way to probe if the Americans are together with the Japanese in this provocation. Every word that Trump said would be analysed carefully to figure out what is the truth. China would then be in a better position to respond appropriately to the challenge. Trump cannot hide the truth behind this tension. If the Americans are in it, then China would have to prepare for an all out war with the Americans, and very likely ask for full backings of the Russians and the North Koreans. Taking on the Americans and the Japanese together is a major decision that could lead to a nuclear war. 

If the Americans are not in with the Japanese, the response by China would be more targeted. China could tell Trump, just stand aside and be a spectator, no American bases or facilities will be hit. China can then go all out to deal with the doggie without offending the master or dragging the master into the fight. The doggie may think it is capable of hitting Beijing or Shanghai. Then Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and all the big Japanese cities would not be left standing. China's response could be calibrated at every level to match the ferocity of the Japanese.

Whether the Americans are behind this or not, China's position has made known to the Americans to consider in advance what is best for the Americans. The Americans may be the provocateurs behind this crisis. Now they have been kept informed of how far China would go, and how far they would want to be part of this war. They are given a choice to back down, to deescalate. The ball is now in the hands of Trump. To fight or take flight. China has showed its hands. This is real. This is not a game of poker, calling one's bluff.

Whatever, Japan is due for a good whacking, unless it apologies and backs down.