Japan commemorated the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II with national memorial ceremonies and speeches reflecting on the war's legacy. Emperor Naruhito delivered remarks emphasizing the importance of passing down memories of wartime hardships to future generations, marking a notable addition to his message by urging continued remembrance. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed remorse during his memorial address, a departure from recent predecessors who had omitted the term since 2013. However, Ishiba's expression of remorse did not extend to acknowledging Japan's responsibility for wartime aggression against Asian countries. The anniversary also reignited diplomatic tensions in Asia when Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi visited Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine, a site controversial for honoring Japan's war dead including convicted war criminals, while Prime Minister Ishiba sent an offering but avoided the shrine. Memorial services included remembrance of war dead from both Japan and the Philippines. The milestone highlighted ongoing challenges in Japan's full reckoning with its wartime past, including concerns over youth awareness of atrocities such as Unit 731 and the historical narrative presented in textbooks. On Okinawa and nearby islands, residents renewed calls for the withdrawal of U.S. troops stationed there, reflecting the lasting impact of the war. Historical accounts also surfaced of post-surrender violence, including atrocities committed by Japanese military units against civilians on Okinawa's Kume Island. Additionally, reflections from a 103-year-old veteran and a Japanese-American born in a wartime internment camp underscored the enduring personal and societal scars of the conflict. Political developments included support from Komeito party leader Tetsuo Saito for Prime Minister Ishiba's continuation in office amid internal party debates.