Former PM Ishiba Renews Criticism of Nuclear Weapons Remarks by Senior Official

Ishiba Reaffirms Anti-Nuclear Stance

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has once again voiced strong criticism against recent remarks made by a senior government official suggesting that Japan should acquire nuclear weapons. Speaking on a program aired Friday night by Japan's BS11 television, Ishiba reiterated his long-held position, emphasizing Japan's unique historical experience as the only nation to have suffered atomic bombings.

Ishiba stressed that Japan must maintain a clear stance on preventing nuclear proliferation and avoid statements that could undermine this position.

Controversial Remarks Spark Debate

The controversy stems from statements made on December 18 by an anonymous senior official in charge of security at the Prime Minister's Office, who told reporters that Japan should possess nuclear weapons.

The official was later identified by the Japanese magazine Shukan Bunshun on December 24 as Oue Sadamasa, a special advisor to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, whose portfolio includes nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation.

These remarks quickly ignited widespread criticism and debate within Japan, challenging the country's long-standing Three Non-Nuclear Principles: not possessing, not producing, and not permitting the introduction of nuclear weapons into Japanese territory.

Ishiba Highlights Treaty and Energy Policy Implications

In his renewed criticism, Ishiba underscored the significant consequences should Japan pursue nuclear armament. He stated that acquiring nuclear weapons would necessitate Japan's withdrawal from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Such a move, Ishiba argued, would render Japan's nuclear energy policy—which is crucial to the country's energy system—untenable. He concluded that 'this would by no means be beneficial for Japan.'

Broader Reactions and National Identity

The official's comments have drawn backlash not only from former leaders like Ishiba but also from various segments of Japanese society, including opposition parties and atomic bomb survivor groups.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara reaffirmed on December 19 that Japan's nuclear policy had not changed, upholding the commitment to the three non-nuclear principles.

The debate reflects growing anxieties within Tokyo regarding the reliability of the United States' 'nuclear umbrella' amidst a volatile regional security environment, with some conservative lawmakers suggesting a review of the 'non-introduction' principle.