Japan Protests U.S. Military Over Sexual Assault Cases in Okinawa

Two American service members face charges, reigniting local opposition to U.S. bases on the island.

Japanese officials demand disciplinary and preventive measures from the U.S. following two recent assault cases.
The incidents involve a 25-year-old Air Force member and a 21-year-old Marine, both charged with sexual assault.
The cases recall the infamous 1995 rape by U.S. servicemen that led to massive protests and a delayed base relocation agreement.
Local leaders express outrage and demand better communication and preventive actions from the U.S. military.
Okinawa hosts about half of the 50,000 U.S. troops in Japan, a point of ongoing contention for residents.