Skip to content
quotesby

The Japanese army is now prepared to use every means within its power to subdue its opponents. The objectives of the Japanese Expeditionary Forces are, as clearly set forth in statements issued by the Japanese Government, not only to protect the vested interests of Japan and the lives and property of the Japanese residents in the affected area, but also to scourge the Chinese Government and army who have een pursuing anti-foreign and anti-Japanese policies in collaboration with Communist influences.

Iwane Matsui#5

MilitaryWarJapanNationalismStrategyWarfare

About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker outlines the Japanese army's readiness to use all means against opponents, citing protection of interests and aggression against anti-foreign policies.
In plain terms
The army is ready to use all power against those opposing Japan.
What can you take from it?
Military force is often justified as defense of national interests.

Where it applies

  • declaring military stance
  • justifying conflict

Putting it to work

  • mobilizing forces
  • stating war objectives

Questions to consider

  • When does defense become aggression?
  • How are war objectives communicated?

Another view

It frames aggressive action as protective without addressing provocation.

More from Iwane Matsui

  1. Orderly discipline and morale within an army was the responsibility of the Division Commander.

    Permalink to quote #4
  2. I am confident that the day is not far distant when the light of peace shine again.

    Permalink to quote #6
  3. Prince Asaka had joined the army only about ten days before its entry into Nanking and in view of the short time he was connected with this army I do not think…

    Permalink to quote #3

Related quotes

  1. Every German soldier must be made to feel that he is living under the muzzle of a Russian gun.

    Vasily ChuikovVasily Chuikov quote #1
  2. The partisan situation in the Italian theater, particularly central Italy, has deteriorated to such an extent that it constitutes a serious danger to troops, s…

    Albert KesselringAlbert Kesselring quote #6
  3. War means fighting. The business of the soldier is to fight. Armies are not called out to dig trenches, to throw up breastworks, to live in camps, but to find …

    Thomas JacksonThomas Jackson quote #18