If U.S. plans to attack North Korea, Japan wants advance notice

TOKYO – Japan has asked the United States to consult with it prior to any military action U.S. forces might take against North Korea, and the U.S. government has indicated its intention to accept the request, a source in the Japanese government said Wednesday.

If the United States attacks North Korea, it is possible that Japan will be targeted by North Korea in retaliation.

Thus the Japanese government judged it necessary to get the United States’ commitment that it will give consideration to Japan in its decision making.

The administration of President Donald Trump is reviewing the country’s policy on North Korea. It has not ruled out military options, including a preemptive attack.

The Japanese government has repeatedly asked the U.S. government to coordinate their North Korea policies.

As part of these efforts, Japan has asked the United States to offer prior consultation if Washington takes a step toward military action.

On the other hand, U.S. bases in Japan are believed to be points from which U.S. forces would be deployed and logistic support provided.

The U.S. government also believes Japan’s cooperation would be essential for an attack.

A high-ranking Japanese government official said: “If (the United States) undertakes military action, we have asked them to offer prior consultation. The U.S. side understands this.”

If Japan and the United States consult prior to an attack, the channels for dialogue would likely be their national security councils, ministerial or vice ministerial officials of their foreign ministries, or defense authorities.

It is likely that the leaders of the two countries would eventually discuss the matter.

On Saturday, U.S. forces announced that the USS Carl Vinson, a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, was dispatched to a northern sea area in the western Pacific Ocean.

The U.S. government has been increasing its pressure on North Korea. The Japanese government takes a positive view of this move.

However, if the United States takes actual military action, it is possible that North Korea will fire ballistic missiles at Japan, since it is an ally of the United States.