"Defeat Day" Carries Hidden Agenda: Japan's "No War" Promise Undergoes Major Shift
According to a report by Japan's Asahi Shimbun on August 15, Takayama Sanae deliberately altered one character in her speech on the same "Defeat Day," significantly changing the meaning of "never again war."
August 15 marks the anniversary of Japan's defeat in World War II. At the state-organized memorial ceremony for national war dead, Takayama Sanae stated: "We will never allow the horrors of war to be repeated."
So far, every prime minister, including former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, has affirmed "war will not be repeated (kakurika saranai)." However, in her recent speech, Takayama added the word "se" (させ), transforming it into: "We must not allow war to be repeated (kakurika sasenai)."
What is the difference between these two expressions? Professor Hirokazu Nakakita from Chuo University’s Department of Japanese Political History pointed out: "The phrase 'will not be repeated' implies that Japan initiated the war, expressing a firm resolve never to start another war. In contrast, 'must not allow war to be repeated' suggests that WWII was not an aggressive war instigated by Japan, but rather a defensive war forced upon Japan."
Nakakita also noted that Takayama’s statement using "must not allow war to be repeated" carries a subtle implication of "coercing other nations." It conveys Japan’s intent to actively strengthen its defense capabilities to counter potential aggression from other countries.
In addition, Takayama avoided using terms such as "reflection" or "solemn pledge never to go to war again"—phrases emphasized by former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba during similar commemorative speeches.
Professor Nakakita expressed concern: "It seems the Japanese government’s stance this year has undergone a significant shift." He further urged Takayama to "promote a correct and firm historical perspective," referencing former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s "70th Anniversary of the End of War" statement, which included the term "invasion" toward other nations.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1873633473729546/
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