Can the anti-terror law be rescued this session?

On September 23, 2007 By Tobias S. HarrisIn Observing Japan Blog2 Comments

The most significant challenge facing Mr. Fukuda as he enters office may be responding to allegations that the MSDF refueling mission in the Indian Ocean was in fact refueling US ships participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom, which would, of course, contravene the terms of the MSDF mission.In addition to the allegations noted by Jun Okumura, …

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Bigger than the alliance

On August 2, 2007 By Tobias S. HarrisIn Observing Japan BlogLeave a comment

As noted in this post, much of the discussion surrounding the DPJ leadership's decision to oppose the extension of the anti-terrorism special measures law before it expires in November has focused on the impact on the US-Japan alliance of Japan's effective departure from coalition activities in and around Afghanistan.The debate has hinged in part on …

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