Trump makes Pearl Harbor joke at meeting with Japanese PM to justify Iran war secrecy

March 21, 2026

TL;DR

President Trump joked about Pearl Harbor with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to justify the lack of advance warning given to allies before strikes on Iran.
Trump explained that surprise was key to the operation and directly asked Takaichi why Japan hadn't warned the US about Pearl Harbor.
The comments were made as Trump defended his strategy amid disagreements with European NATO members over involvement in the Iran conflict.
European leaders, including Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, indicated a lack of appetite for direct involvement in the war.
Trump criticized European NATO counterparts, warning of a "very bad future" if they do not increase support, particularly in unblocking the Strait of Hormuz.

Continue reading the original article