76% in Japan support upholding 3 non-nuclear principles: Poll

A strong majority of Japanese people support the nation's long-standing non-nuclear principles, according to a recent poll. The survey found 76% of respondents back the principles of not producing, possessing, or allowing nuclear weapons on Japanese territory.

Furthermore, 77% of those polled believe Japan should not participate in nuclear sharing arrangements, where the United States might station nuclear weapons in Japan for joint operations. These findings underscore a deep-seated anti-nuclear sentiment in Japan, the only country to have experienced atomic bombings during wartime, as discussions about revising these principles intensify.

While support for Japan joining the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons stands at 55%, this represents a five-percentage-point decrease from the previous year. Forty-two percent of respondents oppose joining the treaty, with 56% of that group believing it would not lead to the abolition of nuclear weapons.

The poll also revealed public opinion on international conflicts, with a combined 90% opposing US military action against Iran and Venezuela. Regarding the Japanese government's response to a US attack on Iran, 44% felt it should have expressed concern, while 34% found its neutral stance appropriate. Looking ahead, 63% believe there is a strong or moderate possibility of nuclear weapons being used in war within the next decade.