Japan Defense Minister Hints at Reconsidering 'Three Non-Nuclear Principles'

Japanese Defense Minister Shigeru Kono has indicated a potential reconsideration of Japan's long-standing "three non-nuclear principles," a move that could signal a significant shift in the nation's nuclear policy. This suggestion comes as Japan prepares to revise its three major security documents by the end of the year.

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Japan, as a country, has difficult but unavoidable topics to discuss, and one of them is the nuclear issue.

Speaking on an internet broadcast, Kono stated that nuclear issues are a difficult but unavoidable topic for Japan. He referenced the evolving security landscape in Europe, particularly Russia's invasion of Ukraine and France's nuclear force buildup, as factors prompting Japan to consider all policy options without taboo. Kono argued that Japan must approach these discussions with a sense of urgency.

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Japan must discuss and promote all policies without taboo, with a sense of crisis.

The "three non-nuclear principles", never manufacturing, possessing, or allowing nuclear weapons on Japanese soil, have been a cornerstone of Japan's policy since they were declared by Prime Minister Eisaku Sato in 1967. While previous governments, including former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's administration, affirmed adherence to these principles, recent discussions within the ruling coalition suggest a growing willingness to explore their re-examination. The Japan Innovation Party, for instance, has called for "realistic reviews" concerning the principle of not allowing nuclear weapons on Japanese territory.

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Is it not the case that upholding the principles comes first, and protecting Japan comes later?

Kono's remarks are seen as particularly bold for a sitting cabinet minister. He also criticized the opposition's stance, suggesting that upholding principles might be prioritized over safeguarding Japan. Meanwhile, Sanae Takaichi, the Minister of State for Economic Security, has consistently argued that Japan's reliance on the U.S. nuclear umbrella while adhering to the non-nuclear principles presents a contradiction. However, she has recently adopted a more general stance, stating that "all issues will be discussed," possibly in response to internal and external concerns regarding a review of the non-nuclear principles.

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Maintaining the non-nuclear principles while gaining deterrence through the U.S. nuclear umbrella is a contradiction.