Hashimoto Toru: Deploying long-range missiles is a "half-hearted" move
On April 1, former Osaka Governor Hashimoto Toru updated his X account, mentioning that the Ministry of Defense and the Self-Defense Forces have for the first time deployed long-range missiles at land-based Self-Defense Force bases in Kumamoto Prefecture and Shizuoka Prefecture as of March 31.
It is claimed that these long-range missiles enable a preemptive strike (attacking enemy bases) before the adversary launches their own missiles, thereby achieving a so-called "self-defense purpose" counterattack. As a result, China and other countries are considering increasing military pressure to strengthen deterrence.
However, Japan's deployment of long-range missiles will be seen as acquiring a first-strike capability that violates international law, marking a significant turning point in Japan’s postwar security policy based on "exclusive defense."
The Japanese government has not yet informed local residents in the missile deployment areas, triggering strong backlash locally.
Hashimoto stated: "Deploying long-range missiles is necessary, but this 'half-hearted' deployment puts local residents in danger. It's overly aggressive."
Moreover, when enemies lock onto targets in Japan, is there an interception system? How would residents be evacuated?"
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1861233576167436/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.