Will Japan Help Destroy Syria's Chemical Weapons?

A limited deployment of Japan Self-Defense Forces to help destroy Syria's chemical weapons would benefit Tokyo's push to revive Japan's global influence, but deep involvement could provoke public backlash. On Sept. 24, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe began a trip to Canada and the United States. During his visit, Abe is expected to speak at the U.N. General Assembly and offer to take an active role in the Syria crisis, according to Kyodo.

Abe's government is debating whether Japan should take part in eliminating Syria's chemical weapons. Judging by the few details available, the Japanese are not considering a dramatic commitment; rather, they are showing a token commitment to preserving international order.