Japan Reaffirms Non‑Nuclear Policy After Security Official Sparks Controversy

Japan restated its non‑nuclear stance on Friday after local reports claimed a senior security official urged the country to obtain nuclear weapons. The comments were linked to an unnamed adviser in Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s office. The statement came on December 19 in Tokyo as the debate over Japan’s defence strategy grew sharper.

Officials moved fast to calm concerns. They stressed that Japan still follows its long‑held policy to never possess nuclear weapons. The issue gained attention because Japan will draft a new defence strategy next year.

Japan’s Non‑Nuclear Policy Faces New Pressure

Japan’s non‑nuclear policy has been in place for decades. It bars the country from owning, developing, or hosting nuclear weapons. The rule is tied to Japan’s history as the only nation to suffer atomic attacks.

According to Reuters, political pressure to review the policy has risen this year. Some leaders doubt the strength of U.S. security guarantees. These concerns grew as nuclear‑armed China, Russia, and North Korea expanded their military capabilities.

At a briefing in Tokyo, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said the policy had not changed. He declined to discuss the reported remarks from the unnamed official. He also did not say whether the person would remain in the government.

Japan hosts the largest overseas U.S. military presence. The two countries have been allies for decades. Some lawmakers argue that the United States should be allowed to bring nuclear weapons into Japan on submarines or other platforms. They say this would strengthen deterrence.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi added to the debate last month. She refused to say if the non‑nuclear principles might change when her government sets the new defence plan next year. Her silence raised new questions about Japan’s future direction.

Rising Regional Tensions Add to Debate

Experts say regional threats are shaping Japan’s security thinking. A professor at a Tokyo university told Reuters that trial signals may help build support for potential policy changes. He said China’s assertiveness and growing cooperation between Russia and North Korea are driving this shift.

These tensions are not new. But they have intensified. China has increased military activity near Taiwan. Japan warned that any attack on Taiwan that threatens Japan could be seen as a “survival‑threatening situation.” That could allow Japan to respond militarily.

The remarks from Ms. Takaichi hurt ties between Tokyo and Beijing. China reacted sharply. It warned Japan not to interfere in issues related to Taiwan.

Nuclear discussions remain highly sensitive in Japan. The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki still shape public opinion. Any move toward weapons or hosting them could also raise concerns among neighbours. China, in particular, watches Japan’s defence steps closely.

Japan now faces a complex choice. It must balance its security needs with public sentiment. It must also avoid actions that could unsettle the region.

Japan’s non‑nuclear policy remains at the center of its defence debate. The government says the stance is firm. The coming year will show if Japan keeps that policy or seeks change as regional tensions grow.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What is Japan’s non‑nuclear policy?

Japan’s policy bans the country from owning, building, or hosting nuclear weapons. It has followed this policy for decades. It remains central to national security identity.

Q2: Why did Japan restate its policy now?

The government restated the policy after reports claimed a senior official supported nuclear weapons. The statement aimed to clear confusion. It also calmed public concern.

Q3: What concerns drive the new debate?

Regional threats from China, Russia, and North Korea are rising. Some leaders also worry about the strength of U.S. security guarantees. These issues fuel calls for stronger deterrence.

Q4: How did China react to Japan’s recent comments?

China criticized remarks from Prime Minister Takaichi about Taiwan. Beijing said Japan should not intervene. The issue added strain to relations.

Q5: Could Japan change its non‑nuclear policy?

No decision has been made. But some lawmakers want a review. The new defence strategy next year may shape the debate.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, AP, NHK, BBC