‘How many more women?’ Fury in Okinawa as US presence faces renewed backlash

Okinawa, Japan — A week after a US Marine was arrested for the murder of a Japanese woman in the island's capital Naha, residents are furious and demanding the US military leave the territory. Takako Kakazu, a 55-year-old housewife, said, "I just can't accept this anymore. How many more women in Okinawa have to suffer like this?"

She lamented that while America claims to protect the island during wartime, they only bring suffering. The incident has sparked outrage, with the Prime Minister condemning the "heinous crime" and reigniting the debate over the heavy US military presence on Okinawa. Despite the presence of American forces, which provides protection and creates jobs – accounting for around five percent of the region's annual income – locals are frustrated and angry.

Airi Hiane, a cafe worker, expressed her frustration, saying, "If they're going to maintain that presence here, they need to follow the rules. Otherwise, it's hard to feel like we can move forward together." While some acknowledge the economic benefits of US military presence, others argue it creates tensions between locals and foreigners.

The murder has led to a strained relationship between locals and the military, with residents like Kakazu pleading for action to stop the violence.