Confused yet?

The current state of the national security debate in Japan:

Government: Japan must be a part of the War on Terror! We must extend our refueling mission in the Indian Ocean. Remember ‘91¹?

Opposition: No! We are American lapdogs! The mission is a violation of the pacifist constitution. Troops home now (erm… after Nov 1)!

Gov: No! Let’s compromise, we can stop the refueling ops and just “police” the Indian Ocean. Remember ‘91?

Opp: No! You are old and factional! Pacifist constitution!

Gov: What do you propose?

Opp: Let’s go to Darfur, or Afghanistan!

Gov: That may be difficult. There is the constitution…

ADDENDUM—LDP heavy: Terrorists!

Confused yet?

¹ Japan faced heavy international criticism for not committing personnel to the first Gulf War. Instead Japan contributed $13b, and was accused of “checkbook diplomacy.” This was a big impedetus for the adoption of the Kaifu Bill, which allowed Japan to deploy troops overseas for UN missions.