Japan's Next Premier Candidate Calls US Steel Block 'Unsettling'

A frontrunner to become Japan's next premier, Shigeru Ishiba, expressed concern over the U.S. potentially blocking Nippon Steel's $15 billion acquisition of U.S. Steel. He warned that such actions could undermine trust between the allies. Despite strong opposition, Japan hopes the U.S. will review the deal fairly.

Shigeru Ishiba, a leading candidate to become Japan's next prime minister, voiced apprehensions on Friday regarding U.S. intentions to block Nippon Steel's acquisition of U.S. Steel, labeling it as 'very unsettling' for relations between the two nations.

The White House appears poised to halt the $15 billion deal, citing national security concerns. Correspondence viewed by Reuters suggested the takeover might disrupt steel supplies for crucial U.S. projects and reduce U.S. Steel's drive to impose tariffs on foreign imports. Ishiba criticized the U.S.'s approach, stressing the need for a sincere and logical dialogue between the Japanese and U.S. governments.

As public opinion polls show strong support for Ishiba, his comments reflect broader apprehension in Japan about U.S. protectionist policies that might strain bilateral ties. Other Japanese officials and analysts echo Ishiba's sentiments, wary that blocking the deal could hamper cooperation on economic and security fronts.

(With inputs from agencies.)