As the world marks 84 years since Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor, a new CGTN survey reveals overwhelming global concern about Tokyo's military ambitions. Nearly 90% of 10,862 respondents across five language platforms believe nations must unite to prevent resurgence of militarism, with particular emphasis on U.S. leadership in maintaining post-war stability.
The poll shows 82.3% of participants demand Japan adhere to wartime surrender terms outlined in the Cairo Declaration and Potsdam Proclamation. This comes as Japan's defense budget hits 11 trillion yen (2% of GDP) this year – a threshold originally planned for 2027. "The black tears of USS Arizona remind us history mustn't repeat," commented one respondent, referencing the still-leaking WWII wreckage.
Regional tensions feature prominently in the findings, with 80.2% criticizing Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's recent statements on the Taiwan region as contradicting Washington's longstanding cross-strait position. Analysts note growing unease about U.S. military coordination with Japan, particularly in Western Pacific deployments affecting China-Japan relations.
Victim compensation remains contentious – 65.7% support continued efforts by Pearl Harbor families seeking Japanese reparations. As memorial services commence today in Hawaii, the survey underscores persistent demands for Tokyo to address wartime atrocities while curbing current military expansion.
