Trump’s Response to Query on Iran Operation

On Thursday, President Donald Trump light-heartedly revisited a sensitive topic after a question from a Japanese journalist regarding the lack of warning to U.S. allies before Operation Epic Fury. This surprise attack, carried out by the U.S. and Israel on February 28, sparked criticism from NATO members due to insufficient communication. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed concerns that “Washington did not consult us,” while French President Emmanuel Macron stated the airstrike acted “beyond the scope of international law.” During a joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, the reporter inquired about the decision-making process behind the attack.

The journalist asked, “Japan and the United States are very good friends, but why weren’t America’s allies in Europe and Asia, like Japan, informed before the action against Iran? This has left many Japanese people quite confused.” Trump replied, “I don’t want to show ‘too much,'” suggesting he aimed to maintain an element of surprise. He added humorously, “No one knows more about surprises than Japan,” which elicited laughter. He quipped, “Why didn’t you tell me about Pearl Harbor?”

Prime Minister Takaichi, who won her position significantly in February 2026, has fostered a strong rapport with Trump. In a post on Truth Social, Trump congratulated her on her coalition, recognizing her as a “highly respected and extremely popular leader.” He assured that Japan “will always provide strong support.”

Nonetheless, Japan has hesitated to back the U.S. in the Iran conflict. Recently, the Japan Times reported that Takaichi had yet to decide whether to send an escort ship to the Strait of Hormuz, which relates to Trump’s request for countries to contribute naval support in the area. After this, Trump stated on Truth Social, “We don’t need anyone’s help!”

During a press conference, Takaichi noted her intention to inform Trump about Japan’s legal limitations in a meeting scheduled for Thursday.