Japan's push to expand its military capabilities is sending shockwaves across the region. Since taking office, Sanae Takaichi has overseen a surge in defense spending, relaxed arms-export rules, and set sights on offensive weapons.
Her provocative rhetoric and hardline security agenda have become symbols of a creeping revival of Japanese militarism—raising questions at home and abroad about how far Tokyo will go.
Backers argue these moves are needed to face evolving threats, but critics warn of a dangerous tilt away from the pacifist principles enshrined in the Constitution. Many young voters and policy watchers fear that escalating military ambitions could backfire.
With elections looming, Takaichi’s strategy may prove to be a political gamble. By reviving the ghosts of Japan’s militaristic past, she risks digging her own political grave.
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Digging up old ghosts: Japanese militarism is setting off alarms
cgtn.com
