Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have been running high amid speculation that North Korea may conduct its sixth nuclear test or carry out a threatened test of an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of reaching the U.S. around its key anniversaries in April. (image: Wikimedia)
SEOUL, April 13 (Korea Bizwire) – Amid the growing possibility of an American preemptive attack on North Korea over nuclear threats, the Japanese government is being accused of overplaying the danger in order to gather support for reforms to its constitution that would grant Japan the right to go to war with other countries again.
Skepticism is brewing over Japan’s true intentions amid the tension surrounding North Korea and the U.S., as the local media continues to hype up the likelihood of anther Korean War with various news outlets citing anonymous sources in favor of the claim that preemptive attacks might be on the verge of targeting North Korea.
Some critics believe the Abe administration is turning the current political tension in the East Asian region to its advantage, hoping to muster support to revamp the country’s constitution and abolish Article 9, the so called ‘peace clause’ that outlaws war.
Earlier this week, Kyodo News reported that high level officials said preemptive strikes on North Korea are on the table depending on the response from Chinese officials during their visit to Japan.
Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have been running high amid speculation that North Korea may conduct its sixth nuclear test or carry out a threatened test of an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of reaching the U.S. around its key anniversaries in April. (image: Flickr/ babeltravel)
Speaking at a meeting, Ishiba Shigeru, a member of Japan’s incumbent Liberal Democratic Party, used strong language, saying, “Seoul could be in flames”, and “We must be come up with plans to rescue Japanese nationals currently living in South Korea in case of a war.”
Even the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) issued a warning through its website concerning overseas safety urging those traveling to South Korea to stay up to date with the latest on the state of affairs in Korea.
Earlier this month, the Japanese government returned ambassador Yasumasa Nagamine to Seoul after he was recalled back in January, citing protection of Japanese residents in Korea as one of the reasons for his return.
Another politician from the incumbent party, Hiroshi Imazu, went one step further, suggesting to the Japanese Prime Minister that the country needs to arm itself with weapons for preemptive strikes as North Korea has shown signs of attacking Japan.
Despite criticism from the opposition party, the Abe administration is poised to expand its Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement with allies through a number of bills and reforms this month.
Amid the growing possibility of an American preemptive attack on North Korea over nuclear threats, the Japanese government is being accused of overplaying the danger in order to gather support for reforms to its constitution that would grant Japan the right to go to war with other countries again. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
Hyunsu Yim (hyunsu@koreabizwire.com)
