As tensions surrounding Iran continue to escalate, the international situation is also changing dramatically from day to day.
In the Japanese National Diet, the Japanese government’s response and the possible dispatch of the Self-Defense Forces have become key issues of debate. How do people view the situation in Iran and the possible dispatch of the Self-Defense Forces? And what kind of outlook do they have on the current global situation?
In response to these developments, Chiki Lab conducted an emergency Japanese public opinion survey. Below, we present the results.
About Chiki Lab
Chiki Lab is a private, non-profit social research organization based in Japan and incorporated as a General Incorporated Association. Supported by donations from its supporters, it conducts surveys to make social issues visible and carries out research on topics such as discrimination, harassment, and mental health.
Public Opinion on the US–Israel War on Iran, Including the Dispatch of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces to the Strait of Hormuz
【Key Findings】
- “If the Japanese government were asked by the United States to dispatch the Self-Defense Forces to the Middle East, it should refuse.”— Total for “Strongly agree” + “Somewhat agree”: 59.7％
- A majority of respondents hold negative views of the U.S. and Israeli military action against Iran.
- “It is unacceptable that the United States and Israel have killed Iranian civilians.”— Total for “Strongly agree” + “Somewhat agree”: 68.8%
- “The attacks carried out by the US and Israel against Iran violate international law and other legal norms.”— Total for “Strongly agree” + “Somewhat agree”: 63.6%
- “The Japanese government should dispatch Self-Defense Forces vessels to escort civilian ships in the Strait of Hormuz.”— Total for “Strongly agree” + “Somewhat agree”: 22.3%
- “The Japanese government should dispatch the Self-Defense Forces to take part in mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz.”— Total for “Strongly agree” + “Somewhat agree”: 23.3%
Perceptions of global affairs
- “I think President Trump is having a positive impact on the global economy.”— Total for “Strongly disagree” + “Somewhat disagree”: 64.1%
- “I think Japan should continue to uphold its ideals as a peace-loving nation, even if circumstances change.”— Total for “Strongly agree” + “Somewhat agree”: 64.8%
- “I think World War III is becoming more likely.”— Total for “Strongly agree” + “Somewhat agree”: 45.1%
