Japan's troops ready to use force in South Sudan

Japan's self-defense forces have been allowed to use firearms and other weapons in peacekeeping missions in South Sudan.


According to Japanese television network NHK on Monday, a 350-member ground self-defense force unit has been granted new duties as a rescue squad in accordance with security legislation ratified in 2015.

The bill allows the country's military to fight in overseas missions and was a historic shift for the country's pacifist constitution, established after the end of World War II.

Japanese troops are currently responsible for monitoring the situation in South Sudan and when necessary to mobilize forces in conflict zones, according to the report.
 [upi.com]
12/12/16
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Related:

• South Sudan criticizes US proposal to impose sanctions
• South Sudan Rejects Regional Troop Deployment by UN
• US deploys 47 more troops to South Sudan to boost embassy security
• China deploys troops to UN force to protect South Sudan oilfields (Wall Street Journal)