"Mr. Itagaki, make the most of the time! The United States has given us only one week to prepare. We must launch the offensive after that week. This time, the Americans have even yielded the Philippine Islands to us. That shows just how seriously they regard this operation. If we still cannot meet the Americans' demands, I am afraid they will no longer support us!" Prime Minister Fumimaro Konoe said solemnly.
"Yes, Prime Minister. Rest assured. We will certainly send troops into the Philippines one week from now, and launch an attack on the Dutch East Indies at the earliest possible time," General Seishiro Itagaki replied.
Fumimaro Konoe nodded and said nothing more. As Prime Minister, he had very little control over the military.
After Seishiro Itagaki returned to the Ministry of War, he immediately summoned Army Chief of Staff Prince Kan'in Kotohito, Inspector General of Training Yoshizō Yamada, and Inspector General of Aviation Lieutenant General Hideki Tojo.
"Gentlemen, because of our navy's incompetence, we have had no choice but to postpone our offensive against the South Seas and Australia. Fortunately, the United States attaches great importance to this. The US government has agreed to let us pass through the Philippine Islands before launching an attack on the South Seas and Australia! For us, this is undoubtedly tremendous news. With the Philippine Islands as a springboard, we can attack the South Seas and Australia without relying on naval support." General Seishiro Itagaki wore a broad smile.
"Excellent! That truly is tremendous news!" Prince Kan'in Kotohito said, his face brimming with smiles.
General Yoshizō Yamada and Lieutenant General Hideki Tojo were equally delighted. This was the first time they had heard the news.
The Island Nation's Army had originally been waiting for an opportunity, intending to attack only after the navy