It is not the place to discuss about how to play AAP40. But if you really need to:
I still think J1 attack is the best strategy. But you do not always win the game by doing it.
I personaly do not attack Philippines on the first turn.
After a few turns, Japan simply cannot continue to protect both Philippines, DEIs, Japan and Carolines, and at the same time continue to push hard on India. Some transport with 1 inf grabbing 1 island and disrupting your NO will pass, you’ll lose time and energy, you’ll make mistakes because you’re alone and they have so many less things to think than you. Of course, if you stp playing on turn 5, then Japan will always win. But aroudn turn 8, when Japan is about to conquer India but has problems keeping America’s pace, then, the game is not broken.
Back on topic:
These politic rules are, IMO, a really great idea. Imagine what could happen if Uk decide to bring its indian planes in Egypt to destroy the Italian army while Japan do not attack them cause Germany really needs the US neutrality. There will be all new mind-games and probably a lot more possibilities than before.