Former Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has intensified his criticism of recent suggestions by government officials that Japan should pursue nuclear weapons, calling such proposals "detrimental to global security" during a televised debate on BS11 this week. The remarks come amid growing controversy over anonymous security officials advocating for nuclear armament in late December 2025.
Ishiba, a longtime advocate of non-proliferation, emphasized Japan's unique moral responsibility as the only nation to suffer atomic bombings. "Our energy policy and international standing depend on maintaining trust through disarmament commitments," he stated, referencing Japan's obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and IAEA safeguards.
The debate reignited after a December 18 statement by an unnamed senior security official at the Prime Minister's Office, later identified by Shukan Bunshun as nuclear policy advisor Oue Sadamasa. Critics argue such proposals could destabilize regional security dynamics and jeopardize Japan's energy infrastructure, which relies heavily on monitored nuclear power.
Analysts note the timing coincides with heightened tensions across Asia, though Ishiba cautioned that nuclear acquisition would isolate Japan diplomatically. The government has yet to formally address the leaked remarks, but opposition lawmakers are demanding transparency ahead of key energy policy reviews in early 2026.
