Japanese Protesters Rally Against Takaichi's Push to Loosen Arms Export Rules

More than 6,000 people gathered to protest the government's plan to loosen restrictions on arms exports.

“Japan opposition parties, citizens rally against gov't move to ease arms export rules Senior figures from several Japanese opposition parties joined thousands of citizens outside the bustling Ikebukuro station in Tokyo on Sunday evening to protest the government's dangerous push to ease restrictions on arms exports and advance sweeping military expansion, voicing concern about the country's future path”

@globaltimesnews

Senior figures from opposition parties joined the rally with signs reading 'Military force cannot bring peace.'

@globaltimesnews

The Takaichi government plans to revise guidelines to loosen overseas arms export restrictions.

Opposition politicians warned this move runs counter to the pacifist constitution.

Tomoko Tamura said Japan's constitution prohibits waging war or contributing to international conflicts.

She stated these moves must be firmly opposed.

CGTN

Tetsu Tatara criticized the military expansion as standing in opposition to the public will.

The opposition framed the plan as part of a broader dangerous shift.

The current five noncombat categories will be scrapped to allow lethal weapon transfers.

“Illustration: Liu Rui/GT The outline of a plan by the government of Sanae Takaichi to relax restrictions on Japan’s defense equipment exports has been revealed, seeking to allow, in principle, the transfer of lethal weapons, which has sparked concerns and criticism within Japan that it could exacerbate conflicts or fuel an arms race, Kyodo News reported on Friday”

Global Times

Parliament will only be notified after exports are completed.

Exports would be limited to countries with information protection agreements.

Exceptions for conflict zones will be allowed based on security needs.