A small group of protesters interrupted Takaichi’s address with chants including “No to war!” and “Protect Article 9!,” according to television footage from the ceremony held in Itoman, Okinawa Prefecture. The demonstration reflected concerns among some Japanese citizens over recent policy shifts that have moved the country further from its postwar pacifist framework.

Takaichi, regarded as a security hawk, used her speech to honor those killed during the 1945 battle, in which approximately 200,000 people died. She said Japan remained committed to peace and reiterated the country’s pledge never to repeat the devastation of war.

“Whenever I reflect upon the regret of all those who perished in the war and the grief of the bereaved families, my heart is filled with profound sorrow,” Takaichi said. “Under our unwavering pledge never again to repeat the devastation of war, Japan has steadfastly moved forward on this path as a nation that places the highest value on peace.”

The protest comes as Japan accelerates changes to its security posture amid rising tensions in East Asia. In April, Tokyo eased restrictions on lethal arms exports, while Takaichi has continued to advocate revising Japan’s constitution, including provisions that limit the role of its military.

Article 9 of Japan’s constitution, adopted after World War Two, renounces war and restricts the use of force as a means of settling international disputes. Although Japan maintains Self-Defense Forces, successive governments have debated how broadly the clause should be interpreted in response to evolving regional security challenges.

Okinawa occupies a strategically important position in Japan’s southwestern island chain and hosts a substantial U.S. military presence. The prefecture’s proximity to Taiwan has heightened its significance as tensions between China and Taiwan continue to shape regional security calculations.

Takaichi’s government has expanded defense cooperation with regional partners, including the Philippines, increased military spending, and supported the acquisition of so-called counterstrike capabilities designed to respond to attacks against Japan.

Her security agenda has drawn criticism from Beijing, which accuses Tokyo of reviving wartime militarism. Relations between the two countries deteriorated further after Takaichi suggested last year that Japan could intervene militarily in the event of a Chinese attempt to take Taiwan.

China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control. Beijing has responded to recent Japanese statements with diplomatic criticism, trade restrictions and travel advisories for Chinese citizens visiting Japan.

The Okinawa ceremony, traditionally focused on remembrance and reconciliation, unfolded against the backdrop of those broader geopolitical tensions, underscoring how debates over Japan’s security future continue to intersect with memories of its wartime past.