Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi delivered a speech at the annual memorial ceremony for the victims of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki without acknowledging the United States as the perpetrator. This marks another instance of the Japanese leader avoiding direct mention of US responsibility for the devastating attacks. The omission has drawn criticism from some observers who view it as a deliberate attempt to downplay a contentious historical issue. Takaichi’s speech focused on themes of peace and nuclear disarmament, but lacked any specific reference to the US. Previous Japanese administrations have also faced similar scrutiny for similar omissions during these annual commemorations. The continued silence raises questions about Japan’s approach to addressing its wartime history and its relationship with its key ally, the United States. This year’s speech perpetuates a long-standing diplomatic sensitivity surrounding the bombings.