On March 29, Japan and the United States reaffirmed their alliance during a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth attended the event on the remote island, now known as Iwo-To, where over 27,000 soldiers lost their lives in one of World War II’s fiercest battles.
Prime Minister Ishiba paid tribute to the fallen and emphasized the importance of peace, while Hegseth highlighted the transformation of former enemies into steadfast allies. The ceremony symbolized post-war reconciliation and the enduring strength of the US-Japan alliance, which both leaders pledged to elevate further.
Discussions between Japanese Defence Minister Gen Nakatani and Hegseth are set to address regional security and measures to enhance military responsiveness. Japan, shedding its pacifist stance, is doubling its defense spending to meet NATO standards, while the US encourages further contributions to regional security.
The alliance remains a cornerstone of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, as both nations navigate growing regional challenges, including China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea.