On March 29, 2025, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth affirmed the alliance with Japan as the "cornerstone" of security in the region during a joint memorial service on Iwoto Island, also known as Iwojima, a site of intense combat during World War II. This marked Hegseth's first official visit to Japan following the inauguration of President Donald Trump's second administration, and the trip was closely scrutinized for indications of the U.S. stance on Japan's defense spending amid rising tensions from China and North Korea.
The memorial service, which commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwojima, was attended by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, making it a historic occasion as it was the first time a sitting Japanese prime minister and U.S. defense secretary jointly attended this annual ceremony.
Located 1,250 kilometers south of Tokyo, Iwoto was the scene of a fierce battle in February and March of 1945, resulting in the deaths of approximately 21,900 Japanese soldiers and around 7,000 U.S. troops. During his address, Hegseth reflected on the reconciliation between former adversaries, stating, "Yesterday's enemy has become today's friend." He emphasized that the U.S.-Japan alliance is essential for freedom, prosperity, security, and peace in the Indo-Pacific region.
Prime Minister Ishiba echoed Hegseth's sentiments, declaring that the two nations have evolved into "trusted allies" and pledged to elevate their partnership "to new heights" while ensuring that the horrors of war are never repeated. In his remarks, Ishiba stated, "We must never forget that the peace and prosperity we cherish today are rooted in the noble sacrifices of the war dead and the enduring efforts of our people over the past 80 years since the end of the war."
The memorial service included the laying of wreaths at a monument honoring the fallen soldiers, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the battle. Ishiba also visited sites where ongoing searches for the remains of soldiers are taking place and expressed his commitment to returning the remains of approximately 11,000 individuals still unaccounted for to their families.
Hegseth's visit comes at a time when Japan is undergoing significant changes in its defense posture. Notably, Japan announced in 2022 plans to increase its defense spending to 2 percent of its gross domestic product by fiscal 2027, marking a notable shift in its postwar security policy. This decision reflects Japan's response to growing security challenges in the region, particularly from North Korea's nuclear ambitions and China's assertiveness.
On March 30, Hegseth is scheduled to meet with Defense Minister Nakatani and Prime Minister Ishiba in Tokyo, where discussions will focus on enhancing the alliance's deterrence and response capabilities. Nakatani noted the significance of their joint attendance at the Iwoto ceremony, stating, "We were able to show in and outside the country that the alliance is defending the region's peace and stability."
Recent U.S. media reports indicate that the Pentagon is contemplating halting planned expansions of U.S. Forces Japan (USFJ) as part of cost-cutting measures, raising questions about future military cooperation. Hegseth's discussions in Tokyo may include calls for Japan to further bolster its defense budget, even as the country has already committed to increasing its military expenditures.
Hegseth's trip, which began on March 24, 2025, has included stops in Hawaii, Guam, and the Philippines, underscoring the importance of U.S. alliances in the Asia-Pacific region. The former Fox News host's visit comes amid scrutiny over his involvement in a scandal regarding the mishandling of sensitive military information, which has drawn criticism from various quarters.
As the memorial service concluded, Ishiba expressed hope for a future defined by peace and collaboration between Japan and the U.S., emphasizing that the lessons learned from the past must guide their actions moving forward. He reiterated Japan's commitment to ensuring that the alliance remains a pillar of stability and security in the Indo-Pacific.
The joint memorial service not only commemorated those who lost their lives in battle but also served as a powerful symbol of the enduring partnership between the United States and Japan. As both nations continue to navigate complex geopolitical challenges, their alliance will play a crucial role in maintaining peace and security in the region.
