As the world remembers the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, experts and survivors warn that the risk of nuclear weapons being used again is higher than in decades. On August 6, 1945, the U.S. dropped “Little Boy” on Hiroshima, followed by a second bomb on Nagasaki three days later. Over 110,000 people died instantly, with hundreds of thousands more succumbing to radiation-related illnesses in later years.
Despite being the only nuclear attacks in history, the threat persists today. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Shiba highlighted deepening global divisions over disarmament, while survivor group Nihon Hidankyo warned of escalating nuclear dangers. Recent tensions—such as U.S.-Russia nuclear posturing over Ukraine, U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, and India-Pakistan clashes over Kashmir—underscore the growing risk.
Hans Kristensen of SIPRI noted a troubling rise in nuclear arsenals, aggressive rhetoric, and abandoned arms control agreements. Survivors urge nuclear-armed states to reconsider their stance, emphasizing the urgent need for disarmament to prevent another catastrophe. The anniversary serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of nuclear weapons—and the pressing need to avoid their use again.
