Tensions Rise Over Japanese Shrine Offering: Shigeru Ishiba's Controversial Gesture

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's offering to the Yasukuni Shrine, notorious for honoring war criminals, sparked backlash from South Korea and China. This marks Ishiba's first such gesture since taking office, risking regional tensions amid upcoming elections and his proposal for an 'Asian NATO'.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's recent offering to Tokyo's Yasukuni Shrine has reignited regional tensions, drawing criticism from both South Korea and China. The shrine, often viewed as a symbol of Japan's militaristic history, commemorates 14 wartime leaders convicted as war criminals among millions of others.

The offering comes at a critical time as Ishiba, who assumed office this month after Fumio Kishida's resignation, faces an impending election challenge. His gesture has sparked diplomatic friction, with South Korea expressing 'deep disappointment' and China urging Japan to reflect on its aggressive past.

As relations between Japan, South Korea, and China hang in the balance, Ishiba remains focused on security initiatives like the proposed 'Asian NATO'. However, this idea faces resistance not only from regional neighbors but also from global stakeholders like the U.S. and India.

(With inputs from agencies.)