In a stunning moment inside the Oval Office, President Donald Trump delivered a sharp and unexpected response when pressed by a reporter about U.S. coordination with Japan ahead of the Iran war.

When asked why Japan was not informed in advance, Trump pointed to the need for maintaining the element of surprise in military operations.

“Who knows better about surprise than Japan?” Trump replied. “Why did you not tell me about Pearl Harbor, right?”

The remark referenced the 1941 surprise Japanese attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, which was carried out without warning and thrust the United States into World War II.

The Japanese Prime Minister appeared caught off guard by the comment and seemed visibly mortified during the exchange, underscoring the tension of the moment.

The exchange immediately drew attention for its historical reference and blunt delivery, highlighting Trump’s signature off the cuff style during high stakes diplomatic moments as tensions surrounding the Iran conflict continue to rise.