The Nagoya High Court in Japan has ruled that the Air Self-Defense Force’s transport of multinational combat troops in Iraq is unconstitutional.
The court stated that the ASDF is violating Article 9 in the Constitution and the 2003 special law that states the ASDF can only participate in humanitarian missions that assist the reconstruction of Iraq. Article 9 bans the use of force to settle international disputes. The judge ruled that airlifting supplies and personnel are a crucial component to combat missions.
Over 1,100 Japanese citizens have filed suits demanding the suspension of all ASDF flights into Iraq. The Japanese government has said they will continue the flights, stating the airport the ASDF uses is a noncombat zone.
Though the High Court will not enforce the ruling, it is the first time a Japanese court has ruled that the actions of the ASDF are illegal.
