Ishiba vows to persist in aiming for a nuclear-free planet.
On August 6, the world observed International Day against Nuclear Weapons, or Hiroshima Day, marking the 80th anniversary of the American atomic bombing of the Japanese city. During the memorial ceremony, Prime Minister Ishiba delivered a poignant address, expressing sincere condolences to the victims of the atomic bomb and sympathy to those still suffering from its aftereffects.
The bombing, known as "Little Boy," exploded at around 8:15 in the morning, leaving a devastating impact on Hiroshima. The city, mainly consisting of wooden buildings, was virtually wiped off the map, with over 80,000 people killed by the blast, and 12,000 still missing. Over 160,000 people sustained various injuries and were exposed to radiation.
Prime Minister Ishiba emphasized the horrors of nuclear warfare and reiterated Japan's commitment to the "Three Non-Nuclear Principles" and the goal of creating "a world without nuclear weapons." He called for dialogue with both nuclear and non-nuclear countries, underscoring Japan's role in leading international efforts to abolish nuclear weapons, drawing on its unique experience as the only country to have suffered nuclear devastation in war.
In his statement, Prime Minister Ishiba expressed confidence that the memory of the horrors of nuclear weapons use must be preserved, not just for future generations of Japan's residents, but for people worldwide. He considered the preservation of the memory of nuclear weapons use to be a responsibility, one that he hoped would inspire future generations to work towards a world free of nuclear weapons and nuclear war.
The memorial ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Ishiba, along with numerous other dignitaries and representatives. The event served as a somber reminder of the devastating consequences of nuclear warfare and the ongoing need for global disarmament efforts.
[1] Japan Times, "Ishiba calls for a world without nuclear weapons and nuclear war," August 6, 2025. [2] Asahi Shimbun, "Ishiba participates in Hiroshima's 80th anniversary memorial ceremony," August 6, 2025.
The Prime Minister's address during the Hiroshima Day ceremony reiterated Japan's stance against nuclear weapons and emphasized the need for global dialogue on war and conflicts, as reported by The Japan Times on August 6, 2025. On the same day, the Asahi Shimbun noted Prime Minister Ishiba's commitment to a nuclear-free world, mentioning his call for Japan to take a leading role in international efforts towards abolishing all nuclear weapons, stemming from the nation's unique historical experience.
