Exclusion of Israel from Nagasaki atomic bombing peace memorial ceremony

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
U.S. and Western ambassadors skip atomic bombing peace memorial in Nagasaki after Israel is not invited due to security concerns. The exclusion of Israel is seen as putting them on par with Russia and Belarus. Survivors were considered in the decision to exclude Israel. The bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima led to Japan's surrender in World War II.

Key Points

  • U.S. and Western ambassadors skipping Nagasaki peace memorial due to Israel's exclusion
  • Survivors known as "hibakusha" are over 85 years old on average
  • Israel's exclusion seen as creating an unfortunate equivalence with Russia and Belarus
  • The bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima led to Japan's surrender in World War II

Pros

  • Consideration for survivors in decision-making
  • Promotion of peace and nuclear disarmament through annual memorials

Cons

  • Controversy over exclusion of Israel and its comparison to Russia and Belarus
  • Political implications in diplomatic relations