Story perspectives

Japan orders review of U.S. troops’ conduct code after killing

By Drooid · Oct 13, 2026, 2:31 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Motegi Announces Review

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi announced a review of the U.S. troops' conduct code after an alleged killing.
Okinawa assembly passed a 45-2 resolution urging revision of the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement.
U.S. military imposed a two-day pause and a month-long midnight-to-5 a.m. curfew after the arrest.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pledged continued efforts to address the case.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio offered condolences and pledged cooperation in the investigation.

Summary

Kakazu Calls Withdrawal

Okinawan resident Takako Kakazu publicly demanded the withdrawal of U.S. troops.
U.S. bases contribute roughly 5% of Okinawa’s annual economic output and provide local jobs.
Bar owner Stephen Butler reported his Naha bar lost business after a 48-hour U.S. alcohol ban.
Guam Vice Speaker Tony Ada warned hearings must have clear purpose, not just optics.
Senator Telo Taitague noted Guam lacks a SOFA affecting jurisdiction over troop crimes.

History

Historical Context

In September 1995 three U.S. Navy and Marine servicemen kidnapped and raped a 12-year-old Okinawan girl, prompting about 80,000 residents to march in Naha on 7 October and reviving protests that began with 1955 rallies. The outcry forced Japan to renegotiate the U.S.–Japan Status of Forces Agreement, a precedent cited today by ministers Toshimitsu Motegi, Sanae Takaichi and local activists demanding tighter conduct rules and a U.S. troop drawdown.

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Motegi Announces Review

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi announced a review of the U.S. troops' conduct code after an alleged killing.
Okinawa assembly passed a 45-2 resolution urging revision of the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement.
U.S. military imposed a two-day pause and a month-long midnight-to-5 a.m. curfew after the arrest.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pledged continued efforts to address the case.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio offered condolences and pledged cooperation in the investigation.

1 / 3