Hundreds of Japanese citizens gathered outside Tokyo's National Diet building and Liberal Democratic Party headquarters on Thursday, December 25, 2025, demanding an immediate review of the nation's defense export policies. Protesters carried banners reading 'No to Arms Profiteering' and 'Peace Over Profit,' reflecting growing public unease about Japan's expanding role in global weapons trade.
The demonstrations coincided with recent parliamentary debates over proposed legislation to ease restrictions on defense equipment transfers. Organizers emphasized concerns that current policies risk transforming Japan into a major arms exporter, contradicting its post-war pacifist principles. A coalition of academics and civil society groups presented a petition signed by 15,000 residents urging transparency in military-industrial partnerships.
While government officials maintain that defense exports strengthen international security cooperation, critics warn of regional destabilization. The protests highlight deepening societal divisions as Japan navigates evolving security challenges in Asia.
