Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has called for Japan to reflect on its war memory as the nation marks 80 years since its defeat in World War II. Speaking to the Budget Committee in Japan’s House of Representatives on August 4, Ishiba emphasized the need to remember the war’s devastation and ensure such tragedy never happens again. Rather than follow the tradition of issuing a formal Cabinet-approved anniversary statement, Ishiba has chosen a different route.He said he would release a message in some form, possibly on September 2.That date marks Japan’s official surrender in 1945.
Ishiba stated that he is carefully studying previous statements made by past prime ministers. He stressed the importance of staying consistent with messages delivered on the 50th, 60th, and 70th anniversaries. Countries like China and South Korea often closely watch these statements, as they suffered under Japan’s wartime actions.
The prime minister said it is not enough to only express thoughts. He believes Japan must actively demonstrate what it can do to prevent future conflicts. Ishiba emphasized that actions matter more than sentiment. He also acknowledged that war memory must not be allowed to fade. He expressed a desire to keep public awareness alive for future generations. While he is not planning a new formal apology, Ishiba intends to honor past words while avoiding unnecessary political controversy.
On August 6, Ishiba will attend a memorial in Hiroshima to mark the anniversary of the atomic bombing. He will then visit Nagasaki on August 9 for another ceremony. These events are significant moments of remembrance and a central part of Japan’s peace narrative. In 1995, then-Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama delivered a full apology. He expressed deep remorse and acknowledged the suffering caused by Japan. In contrast, in 2015, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe maintained key terms from past apologies but did not offer new sentiments.
Some conservative lawmakers from the Liberal Democratic Party, who were aligned with Abe, oppose revisiting the 2015 statement. They worry that a new message might reopen debates on historical responsibility and what they call “apology diplomacy.”Ishiba has taken a balanced approach. He wants to reaffirm Japan’s peaceful path while avoiding political divisions. By focusing on war memory, he aims to steer national conversation toward reflection, responsibility, and lasting peace.
