Hiroshima Marks 80 Years since Atomic Bomb with Urgent Warnings

Residents of Hiroshima gathered on August 6, 2025, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing that devastated their city during World War II. Survivors and local officials expressed deep concern regarding the increasing global acceptance of nuclear weapons as a deterrent, a sentiment that resonates particularly strongly as the number of survivors continues to decline.

The bombing on that fateful day in 1945 resulted in the deaths of approximately 140,000 people, leaving an indelible mark on history. As the average age of survivors now exceeds 86, many view this anniversary as a pivotal moment to share their experiences. Minoru Suzuto, a 94-year-old survivor, emphasized the urgency of passing on their stories, stating, “There will be nobody left to pass on this sad and painful experience in 10 years or 20 years.”

Warnings from Hiroshima’s Leaders

Hiroshima’s Mayor, Kazumi Matsui, delivered a poignant address during the ceremony, cautioning against the rising normalization of military build-ups and the potential use of nuclear weapons in national security strategies. He highlighted the implications of current conflicts, particularly referencing Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. Matsui remarked, “These developments flagrantly disregard the lessons the international community should have learned from the tragedies of history.” He urged younger generations to recognize that such policies could lead to “utterly inhumane” consequences.

Nihon Hidankyo, a grassroots organization of atomic bomb survivors that was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022 for its advocacy for nuclear disarmament, echoed these sentiments. The organization expressed its concern over the growing nuclear threat, stating, “Our biggest challenge now is to change, even just a little, nuclear weapons states that give us the cold shoulder.”

As the ceremony progressed, a minute of silence was observed at 8:15 AM, the exact moment the bomb was dropped. Attendees included representatives from a record 120 countries, and as part of the commemoration, dozens of white doves were released, symbolizing peace.

Reflections on Peace and Protest

In the hours leading up to the official ceremony, survivors and their families paid tribute at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, located near ground zero of the atomic blast. Kazuo Miyoshi, a 74-year-old retiree, attended to honor his grandfather and two cousins who perished in the bombing. He voiced a universal desire for peace, stating, “We do not need nuclear weapons.”

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also contributed to the day’s discussions through a statement read by Izumi Nakamitsu, the UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs. Guterres praised the efforts of Nihon Hidankyo and emphasized the importance of sharing survivors’ testimonies to protect peace for future generations. “Remembering the past is about protecting and building peace today and in the future,” he stated.

Outside the memorial park, protests unfolded under heightened security. Over 200 demonstrators gathered, showcasing banners with messages such as “No Nuke, Stop War” and advocating for peace in conflict zones, including Gaza. Local authorities reported two arrests related to assaults on security personnel during the protests.

The significance of this anniversary is underscored by the contemporary discourse surrounding nuclear armament. Some survivors expressed disappointment in the international community’s stance, particularly following comments made by former U.S. President Donald Trump. His justification of military actions against Iran by likening them to the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki disheartened many, including 79-year-old Kosei Mito, who experienced radiation exposure while in his mother’s womb. He stated, “I don’t think we can get rid of nuclear weapons as long as it is justified by the assailant.”

As Hiroshima reflects on its painful past, the survivors’ voices serve as a critical reminder of the need for peace and the ongoing struggle against nuclear proliferation. The commemoration not only honors those lost but also urges current and future leaders to reconsider the path toward a world free of nuclear threats.