Japan’s only experience with nuclear warfare resurfaced in controversy following remarks made by US President Donald Trump. While discussing recent strikes on Iran, Trump drew a parallel to the devastating bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, stating, “That hit ended the war.” Survivors still suffer from the long-lasting effects of the bombings, which resulted in approximately 140,000 deaths in August 1945.
Nagasaki’s Mayor, Shiro Suzuki, found Trump’s comparison highly regrettable, expressing that such statements could imply justification for the atomic attacks. Mimaki Toshiyuki, a survivor and co-chair of the peace organization Nihon Hidankyo, labeled Trump’s remarks as "unacceptable." Other survivors shared their dismay, calling for an apology amidst rising tensions.
In response, citizens in Hiroshima protested and lawmakers condemned comments that rationalize nuclear warfare. Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi Yoshimasa reiterated Japan’s ongoing stance against nuclear weapons to the United States. As Trump’s remarks stirred painful memories, Hiroshima remains a symbol against nuclear armament, emphasized by a peace flame continuously burning since the 1960s and a museum clock counting days since the last nuclear attack. World leaders visiting Hiroshima are encouraged to create paper cranes, symbolizing their commitment to peace.
Nagasaki’s Mayor, Shiro Suzuki, found Trump’s comparison highly regrettable, expressing that such statements could imply justification for the atomic attacks. Mimaki Toshiyuki, a survivor and co-chair of the peace organization Nihon Hidankyo, labeled Trump’s remarks as "unacceptable." Other survivors shared their dismay, calling for an apology amidst rising tensions.
In response, citizens in Hiroshima protested and lawmakers condemned comments that rationalize nuclear warfare. Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi Yoshimasa reiterated Japan’s ongoing stance against nuclear weapons to the United States. As Trump’s remarks stirred painful memories, Hiroshima remains a symbol against nuclear armament, emphasized by a peace flame continuously burning since the 1960s and a museum clock counting days since the last nuclear attack. World leaders visiting Hiroshima are encouraged to create paper cranes, symbolizing their commitment to peace.
