Japan lifts ban on lethal weapons exports in major shift of pacifist policy

Japan's cabinet has lifted a ban on exporting lethal weapons, including fighter jets, missiles and warships, in a major shift from its pacifist post-World War II constitution. The changes will allow transfers of all defence equipment, with recipients limited to countries that commit to using them in accordance with the UN Charter. Japan will still restrict exporting weapons to countries where fighting is currently taking place, but exemptions are allowed under special circumstances.