US Soldier Charged with Rape of Minor in Okinawa

Incident reignites local opposition to American military presence amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

25-year-old US Air Force member accused of kidnapping and raping a teenage girl in December.
Japanese government demands stricter oversight of US military personnel stationed in the country.
Okinawa hosts 70% of US military bases in Japan, leading to longstanding local grievances.
Previous high-profile cases of sexual assault by US servicemen have triggered mass protests.
Trial set to begin on July 12, with US and Japanese officials cooperating in the investigation.