Dispatch of Self-Defense Forces to Iraq is unconstitutional

The Upper House on July 7 started discussing the controversial bill to send Ground Self-Defense Force units for the first time to a country where combat is taking place. The Lower House passed the bill on July 4.

Speaking at the Upper House Plenary Session on behalf of the Japanese Communist Party, Koizumi Chikashi stated,"The core of the 'special measures law' to help Iraq rebuild itself is that the planned sending of the SDF will only assist in the U.S.-British occupation of Iraq," which is clearly unconstitutional. He insisted on discarding it after a thoroughgoing debate.

The government had explained that sending the SDF is constitutional since they would not join the occupation forces or follow any of their directions or orders.

Referring to U.N. Security Council resolution 1483 stipulating "Ensuring the safety and stability of Iraqi people is a proper duty of the occupation forces," Koizumi said that the SDF could not possibly behave without the "consent" of the U.S.-British forces. He went on to say, "Cooperation with those forces will constitute the use of the right of belligerency in violation of the constitution.

Prime Minister Koizumi Jun'ichiro remarked, "The SDF will be in 'concert' with the U.S.-British forces, but won't at all come under their command.

Koizumi Chikashi emphasized, "Japan should use non-military means instead of the SDF to positively support Iraq. (end)