Japan is abuzz after former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba weighed in on a hot debate: should Japan, the world's only nation to suffer atomic attacks, consider nuclear weapons? This past Saturday, Ishiba shut down the idea, arguing that nukes 'will never be beneficial for Japan.' 🚫💣
He pointed out that going nuclear would force Japan to withdraw from the Treaty on the Non-proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Without these agreements, Japan's civilian nuclear energy program — a cornerstone of its power mix — would be at risk.⚡🔌
This comes after a senior security policy official under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested earlier this week that Japan should arm itself with nukes. The remark, first reported by Kyodo News on Thursday, sparked strong pushback at home, raising questions about Japan's strategic posture and its commitment to pacifism.📰🤔
For many young people and professionals watching Asia's security landscape, this debate highlights a clash between historical memory, energy needs, and regional tensions. Will Japan stick to its non-nuclear principle, or could opinions shift in the future? For now, Ishiba's stance is clear: nuclear weapons are a no-go for Japan. 🇯🇵✌️
What do you think? Share your thoughts on Japan's nuclear policy in the comments! 💬👇
Reference(s):
Former Japanese PM Ishiba: Nuclear weapons would never benefit Japan
cgtn.com
