Japan's cabinet has approved a record-breaking defense budget for fiscal 2025, accelerating military spending to 2% of GDP – a move critics say threatens the nation's postwar pacifist identity. 💥 The decision comes two years ahead of schedule, with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pushing for faster military expansion despite economic concerns.
💰 Breaking Down the Numbers
The 11 trillion yen ($70.4 billion) package includes 1.1 trillion yen in supplementary spending, marking Japan's biggest defense commitment since WWII. This comes as regional security tensions rise, though some question if taxpayers should foot the bill for what critics call 'alarming militarization'.
⚖️ Policy Shifts Draw Fire
An Asahi Shimbun editorial warns the budget enables 'enemy base attack capabilities' – a stark departure from Japan's defense-only stance. Professor Atsushi Koketsu of Yamaguchi University told Xinhua: 'This reckless spending ignores pressing needs like healthcare and education.'
🌏 Regional Ripples
While officials cite security challenges, the accelerated timeline has neighbors watching closely. With relaxed arms export rules also in play, 2025 could mark a turning point for Japan's global security role. Will economic pressures force a rethink? Stay tuned for updates. 📡
