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Trump's 'Joke' About Pearl Harbor Offends Japanese Prime Minister

Published March 19, 2026, 20:13
Trump's 'Joke' About Pearl Harbor Offends Japanese Prime Minister

US President Donald Trump made a controversial joke during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takai, referencing the bombing of Pearl Harbor. When asked about not informing allies about the attack on Iran, Trump sarcastically asked Takai why she hadn't warned him about Pearl Harbor. The comment caused a stir, given that the attack on Pearl Harbor led to the US entry into World War II. The meeting also focused on trade and energy costs, due to the surge in oil prices caused by the conflict in Iran.