Activists rallying against the building of a controversial military base in Henoko, Okinawa, have declared a week-long pause in their protests. Following recent clashes and resulting media spotlight, the decision to refrain from protests for the week was taken collectively. The reasons behind such decisions are often numerous and complex; however, maintaining peaceful relations with local communities often ranks high.

Protests concerning the relocation of the U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Futenma to Henoko have been a longstanding, contentious issue in Japan. It's a contentious issue involving large factions of the Japanese society, most notably the people of Okinawa who have repeatedly voiced out their opposition due to environmental, social, and political reasons.

In the U.S. or EU, protests against the construction of military bases or environmentally damaging projects are also common. Just like in Japan, these activities typically involve periods of escalation and de-escalation, often influenced by media attention, government actions, and changes within the movement itself.