Bravo for Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumo, who is refusing to yield to Iraqi terrorists whi have kidnapped three Japanese journalists, demanding the withdrawal of Japan's contingent of troops in Iraq. The Japanese Self—Defense Forces in Iraq are performing humanitarian task.

Japan's government was concise and eloquent:

``We have no reason to withdraw,'' Yasuo Fukuda, Japan's chief cabinet secretary said at a televised press conference in Tokyo. ``Our Self—Defense Forces are offering humanitarian aid.'' He said Japan is demanding the immediate handover of the hostages.

Once again, Japan is proving itself to be a loyal, brave, and worthy ally of the coalition. Prime Minister Koizumi has taken heavy criticism from his political opponents, and could end up paying a high price. But he is hanging tough, as are the brave Japanese forces serving in Iraq.

Posted by Thomas  04 08 04