Japan's Prime Minister recently defended the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)'s position concerning the contested Henoko base in Okinawa. This comes amidst ongoing disputes within the nation regarding the relocation of U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Futenma to Camp Schwab in Henoko. The Prime Minister's endorsement of MEXT's stand further solidifies government support for the contentious relocation plan.

As a consequence of post-World War II treaties, numerous U.S. military bases are located in Japan - Okinawa hosts the majority. The relocation plan of Futenma Air Station to Henoko has been a long-standing point of contention. National security, noise pollution, and environmental concerns clash with the socio-economic impacts of America's military footprint.

In the US or EU, the presence of foreign military bases on domestic soil is a rare occurrence. If such matters arise, they are typically subject to international treaties and agreements. The local population's voice plays a significant role too, similarly to Japan.