Japan finalizes law on overseas military operations

Japan's upper house of parliament has approved a bill allowing the use of military forces abroad. In mid-July, this document was supported by the lower house. Since 1945, after the end of World War II, the Japan Self-Defense Forces were not authorized to conduct overseas operations.

According to the adopted law, the Japanese army will be able to participate in hostilities in the event of an attack on Japan or its allies - in a situation where such an attack threatens the existence of the state and poses a direct threat to the population.

The law is "necessary for the protection of people and a peaceful way of life, it is designed to prevent wars," Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said after the law was approved by the upper house.

Reuters

• Consideration of a law allowing the use of the Japanese army in operations abroad caused protests from the opposition and massive street actions. Opponents of the law argue that it is contrary to the country's pacifist constitution. Thousands of people rallied in front of the parliament building demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
• China has repeatedly opposed the plans of the Japanese government. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the adoption of the law an unprecedented decision and called on Japan to "learn the lessons of history."