BY Ai YOSHIDA

After the terrorist attacks in the United States on Sept. 11, Prime Minister Koizumi declared: "These terrorist acts are extremely heinous and outrageous and cannot be forgiven. It is a challenge not only to the U.S. but also to democracy, peace and liberty. We should fight terrorism with the U.S. and we will stand by the U.S." He expressed determination to fight against terrorism with the international community and to support the U.S. posture of never yielding to terrorists. Japan already summed up seven policies for the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) to provide logistic support for U.S.-led military operations. The anti-terrorism bill eventually passed in a committee meeting of the House of Representatives.

This special law which targets terrorist's acts is aimed at working independently with in the international community to eradicate it. It was for that purpose that the policies of the SDF were revised for its use of weapons and its sphere of activities. This sphere now includes foreign territories as well as areas surrounding Japan. Prime Minister Koizumi declared that, while he regards Article 9 of the Constitution important, the SDF is only allowed to go to noncombat zones. The opinion that SDF members should never face danger, however, is a delusion because it is possible for terrorists to attack anywhere in the world. For that reason, the SDF might come under attacks and there are many hazards.

SDF members will provide logistic support for the U.S.-led military campaign in areas of medical services, transport fuel, food and other supplies, gathering electronic intelligence, economic assistance and relief for refugees. For the SDF to be able to carry arms while doing these operations, the Diet redefined a new law allowing the SDF to carry weapons for self-protection. If the SDF provide logistic support, it is natural that the Diet should reconsider the law to improve the conditions under which SDF members carry out their assignments in order to maximize their safety. As a result, the anti-terrorism bill passed as drafted, and the SDF will be sent overseas before the recognition of a bill in the Diet. In addition, Japan should explain how it will act as a part of international cooperation to eradicate terrorism.

Naturally, it is possible that terrorists may attack Japan because of Japan's efforts to fight terrorism. As Prime Minister Koizumi said, Japanese must make up their minds, for Japan already entered the long war against terrorism. Indeed, there is no doubt that terrorists may attack Japan. According to a Japanese poll, over 80% agree with the Koizumi Cabinet. I suspect that Japanese understand the current crisis and are prepared to accept the dangerous road ahead.