Recently there's been talk of the Japanese government amending
its Constitution so that Japan can deploy its troops to overseas
regions to aid US military operations. In the past, there would
have been massive outcries among the Japanese against such a move.
But nowadays the younger generations are high on nationalism; they
view that the restriction of the troops is a humiliation to the
country and that the law should be abolished. This movement is also
gaining momentum among the politicians.
Judging from the reactions, it might not be long before Japan
really changes its Constitution, with the US's approval of course.
Many regional analysts have pictured the scenario where Japan will
act as moderator for US in the Pacific region and control rogue
states such as N.Korea and possibly China.
Many ppl believe that, should Japan be given a policing duty for
the US, such powers might be abused. Japan may use its pre-emptive
measures to strike against those not in its favour. Given its
excellent technology and ample US backing, Japan can certainly hold
her worth in any conflict.
History has shown us that Japan has an abundant record of
aggression against other nations in the pretext of protection of
its people and interests. The Kwantung incident in 1931 is a very
good example. All will be well if the Japanese can control
themselves; sadly this does not seem to be the case especially that
the younger ones are leaning towards ultra-nationalism and are
quick to use violence as a means to settle any conflict.
will we see history repeat itself as Japan tries to rebuilt its
military might in the 1930s? Will the neighbouring countries be
prompted into taking necessary actions against Japanese military
buildup?
Will there be another US-brokered East Asia Prosperity Circle to
fufill unfinished dreams of the Japanese militarists?
