(MENAFN) Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has delivered a reflective address marking the 80th anniversary of World War II's end, drawing sharp attention from political observers and media for both its introspective tone and notable omissions.

Spanning roughly 6,000 words in Japanese and released Friday, Ishiba’s statement tackled five institutional pillars — the pre-war constitution, government structure, parliament, media, and intelligence apparatus — arguing each played a role in steering Japan toward war.

"The country must not prioritize emotional and sentimental judgments over calm and rational ones," Ishiba said. He further warned, "Politics must never pander to public opinion or pursue popularity-seeking policies that would harm the national interest," and condemned rising "narrow-minded nationalism and xenophobia."

While the prime minister emphasized the need for “courage and integrity to squarely face the past,” critics noted the absence of direct references to Japan's wartime aggression, particularly toward neighboring Asian countries — a key component in past official government statements.

Released in his personal capacity and lacking full cabinet endorsement, the message diverges from past milestone declarations — notably those on the 50th, 60th, and 70th anniversaries — which had formal backing and explicitly acknowledged wartime aggression. In contrast, Ishiba, when asked by a reporter, only reaffirmed that his views “include the ‘feelings of remorse and apology’” expressed by prior administrations.

Japanese outlets noted the speech’s novel perspectives but highlighted its unofficial nature. Compared to previous prime ministers, Ishiba’s approach is viewed as more historically progressive — yet constrained.

Seen as a moderate conservative within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Ishiba faces internal pushback. His nuanced historical stance is considered a balancing act between hardline elements and public sentiment. Many within the LDP remain loyal to the tone set by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who declared in his 70th anniversary address that “future generations should not be predestined to apologize.”

Though Ishiba initially intended to issue a cabinet-approved statement to honor the 80th anniversary, fierce resistance from LDP conservatives derailed those plans. Newly elected LDP president Sanae Takaichi publicly dismissed the need for any new declaration, reinforcing the party's more nationalist trajectory.

The controversy underscores Japan's ongoing struggle to reconcile official historical narratives with rising domestic political pressures — and the limits of one leader’s personal conviction in shaping national memory.

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