US-Japan Alliance Celebrated at Historic Iwo Jima Memorial

US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth attended a memorial on Iwo Jima, praising the US-Japan alliance forged from past enmity. The visit underscores growing cooperation between the two nations amidst regional tensions with China and North Korea. Discussions in Tokyo aim to strengthen military ties and promote peace.

At a memorial service on Iwo Jima, US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth lauded the enduring friendship and trust between the United States and Japan. This event marked a poignant moment of reconciliation, as both nations once faced each other in fierce battle during World War II.

Hegseth's visit to Japan follows his earlier trip to the Philippines and coincides with increasing assertiveness from China in the South China Sea. The US and Japan continue to stand as key allies amidst these regional tensions, particularly in light of discussions on potential trade tariffs by US President Donald Trump.

Ahead of talks in Tokyo with his Japanese counterpart Gen Nakatani, Hegseth emphasized the importance of strengthening the US-Japan alliance as a cornerstone of security and peace in the Indo-Pacific. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba echoed these sentiments, stressing the need to remember the sacrifices of the past while fostering a collaborative future.

(With inputs from agencies.)