Japan Scraps Lethal Arms Export Ban

Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated that several countries have already expressed interest in acquiring Japanese military equipment.

The policy change allows Japan to participate more fully in international defense projects and strengthen its strategic alliances.

While the government maintains that the move does not make Japan a 'militarist' state, it has sparked protests among youth groups committed to protecting the pacifist constitution.

The decision reflects a broader regional trend toward remilitarization amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.